{■ 





^ 



PROCEEDINGS 



OF THE 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



FOR THE YEAR 1844. 



CiS.iinS.'- 



' KEY/ YORK: 

PSESS OF THE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



1845. 






WM. VAN .NJRi/EN, PRINTER, 49 UUKRTY eTREBT. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

Univeksity, January 7, 1845. 
Ordered, — That the Annual Reports antl Proceedings be referred to the Ex- 
ecutive Committee, and published. 

Extract from the Minutes. 

JOHN JAY, Sea-etary. 



EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. 

Library, January 21, 1845. 
Ordered, — That the Reports submitted at the Annual Meeting, together with 
an abstract of the proceedings of the Society during the past year, be printed for 
the use of the members, under the direction of the Chairman and Secretary. 

Extract from the Minutes. 

ERASTUS C. BENEDICT, Secretary. 



miktxs of tl)c Socxets, 1844 



PRESIDENT, 

Hon. ALBERT GALLATIN, LL. D. 

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT, 

\V1LLL\M BEACH LAWRENCE. 

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT, 

Rev. THOMAS DE WITT, D. D. 

TREASURER, 

CYRUS MASON, D. D. 

FOREIGN CORRESPONDING SECRETARY, 

FREDERIC DE PEYSTER. 

DOMESTIC CORRESPONDING SECRETARY, 

GEORGE FOLSOM. 

RECORDINNG SECRETARY, 

JOHN JAY. 

LIBRARIAN, 

GEORGE GIBBS. 



ASSISTANT LIBRARIAN, 

GEORGE H. MOORE. 



EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. 
PROSPER M. WETMORE, Chairman, 
GULIAN C. VERPLANCK, LL. D., 
EDWARD ROBINSON, D. D., 
ALEXANDER W. BRADFORD, 
JOHN R. BARTLETT, 
HENRY R. SCHOOLCRAFT, 
ERASTU3 C. BENEDICT, Secretary. 

1* 



SYNOPSIS. 



1844. Jan. 2. Annual Election. 

Dr. De Witt's Paper. 
Feb. 6. Dr. Forry's Paper. 

Mr. Schoolcraft's Report. 
20. Special Meeting. 

Dr. Forry's Paper Concluded, 
Mar. 5. Mr. Bloodgood's Paper. 
April 2. Mr. Butler's Paper. 
May 7. Dr. Beakley's Paper. 
June 4. Mr. Edmonds' Paper. 
18. Special Meeting. 

summer recess. 

Oct. 1. Death of John Pintard Announced. 

Death of William L. Stone Announced. 

Mr. Hodgson's Paper. 

Mr. GiBBs' Paper. 
Nov. 5. Mr. Brodhead's Account of his Mission. 
20. Celebration of the Fortieth Anniversary. 

Mr. Brodhead's Address. 

Public Dinner. ' 

Dec. 3. Mr. Yates' Paper. 

Mr. Bartlett's Paper. 

Dr. Forry's Death Announced. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



ANNUAL REPORT. 
Historical Rooms, University, January?, 1845. 

At the recurrence of the Annual Meeting the Executive 
Committee in the discharge of the duties enjoined upon 
them, deem it expedient to submit an abstract of the trans- 
actions of the past year ; not merely as a formal report to 
the Society, but as a condensed official record of its pro- 
ceedings, for the information no less of those members who 
have not been able to attend the meetings, than of kindred 
societies, and the public at large, who feel an interest 
in the result of our labors. 

The members of the Society have great reason to rejoice 
in the continued prosperity and growing usefulness of an 
institution established for such noble purposes, and which 
has heretofore struggled with difficulties and embarrass- 
ments which always retarded, and for a number of years 
wholly paralyzed its healthful action. It now enjoys the 
breath of a new and vigorous life, and sees in the large and 
spirited attendance of its members the means of increasing 
usefulness, and the promise of uninterrupted prosperity. 

But our congratulations are not unmingled with sorrow. 
During the year which has just closed, three of our mem- 
bers, who had taken an active part in the proceedings of 
the Society, have been removed by death. John Pintard, 
LL. D., one of the founders of the Institution, and always 
its fast friend, was at our last Annual meeting the oldest 
surviving member of the Society. He has gone to his rest, 
full of years, with a mind stored with useful knowledge, 
rich in the esteem of his fellow men, and leaving behind 



10 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

him the memory of a life of active usefulness and universal 
benevolence. 

We have also been called to mourn the loss of a zealous 
associate in William L. Stone, so long and so favorably- 
known as an active literary and political Editor of one 
of our oldest daily journals, but who still found time to 
gratify his taste for historical and general literature, and 
by his works to give his name a place in our literary annals. 
Up to the period of his last fatal illness, he was an ardent 
and efficient member of the Society, and of its Executive 
Committee, and had in course of preparation for the press, 
further valuable results of his researches into the early his- 
tory of our State. The latest production of his pen was a 
paper on an interesting historical subject, intended by him 
to be read before the Society, which is now in the posses- 
sion of the Committee, and will be presented on a future 
occasion. 

Doctor Samuel Forry had but recently joined the Society, 
but his constant attendance upon its meetings, the part he 
took in its discussions, and the papers read by him, as well 
as his productions and labors in the line of his profession, 
left no room to doubt that the favorable estimate his many 
friends had formed of his character, was just ; and that in 
his early death this Society has lost a valuable member, 
and the community an estimable citizen. 

Allusion was made in the last Annual Report to the influ- 
ence which this Society had exercised in procuring the 
establishment by the State Government, of a mission to 
examine the ancient colonial records in Holland, France, 
and England ; and to procure copies of such documents as 
might furnish useful materials for the future historians of 
our country. This important trust was confided to John 
RoMEYN Brodhead, Esq., a citizen of our State, who has dis- 
charged the duty with signal ability and faithfulness. The 
results of his mission will shortly be communicated officially 
to the Legislature, and the Committee confidently believe 
that the large collection of documents procured by him will 
be found exceedingly valuable as historical authorities. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 11 

The Committee repeat and urge the suggestion formerly 
.made, that steps should be taken to procure the publication 
of these records, under the auspices of this Society ; subject 
to whose use they are now by law required to be kept in 
the office of the Secretary of State. If they are not to be 
published by the State, the cause of History would seem to 
be better subserved by having them deposited with our col- 
lections, where they could conveniently be collated with 
other authorities, and be free from the embarrassments 
w^hich necessarily impede research in one of the public 
offices of the State Government. 

During the past year, nine stated and three special meet- 
ings of the Society have been held, all of which have been 
characterized by proceedings of instructive interest. During 
the customary summer recess, alterations were made in the 
gallery of the Library, by which portions of the collections 
have been rendered more accessible, and a better disposition 
made of the pictures and busts. 

At the stated meeting in January, the officers of the 
Society were unanimously re-elected. 

Rev. Thomas De Witt, D. D., Second Vice President, 
read a paper entitled, " Sketches of New Netherland," and 
exhibited a number of autograph letters of Governor Stuy- 
vesant, and others, of a very early date. Also a letter from 
Rev. A. Messier, of New Jersey, presenting an original Dutch 
proclamation for Thanksgiving in 1764. At the request of 
the Society, Dr. De Witt furnished a copy of his paper for pub- 
lication, and it will be found in the Appendix to this Report. 

At the stated meeting in February, Mr. Schoolcraft pre- 
sented a report in part, relating to Indian topographical 
names, and the Committee having charge of that subject 
were instructed to continue their investigations. 

Full-length portraits of Lieutenant Governor Cadwallader 
Colden, and General Alexander Hamilton, were deposited 
in the Gallery by Prosper M. Wetmore, on behalf of the 
Chamber of Commerce. These fine pictures add very much 
to the interest and value of the collection of historical por- 
traits in possession of the Society. 



12 PROCEEDINGS OP THE 

An original portrait of the President, Hon. Albert Galta- 
tin, was presented to the Society by the Artist, Mr. William , 
H. Powell. 

Dr. Samuel Forry commenced the reading of a paper on 
« Vital Statistics." 

At the special meeting held on the 20th of February, Mr. 
Schoolcraft introduced the following Preamble and Resolu- 
tions : — 

" Whereas, the appropriation from the State Treasury of 
funds for procuring documents from the Archives of Euro- 
pean Governments, illustrative of our Colonial History, 
originated with this Society ; and, whereas, this Society, 
though it was not consulted, nor its views followed with 
reference to the establishment of the Agency in Europe for 
carrying into effect the intentions of the Legislature, yet has 
looked with anxious solicitude to the results of the mission, 
has received with satisfaction the public reports of the pro- 
gress made by the Agent appointed by the late Governor of 
this State, and has repeatedly urged on the competent 
authority the furnishing of the necessary means to bring the 
business confided to him to a successful issue ; and whereas, 
it is understood that numerous documents have been trans- 
mitted by the said Agents and are now at the seat of the 
State Government ; and whereas, it is desirable that the 
character and value of these documents should be ascer- 
tained and communicated to the Society — Therefore, 

" Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to examine the 
documents that have been transmitted by the Agent of the 
State of New York, and to report to the Society of the 
nature and character of the same. 

" Resolved, That the same Committee be authorized to 
address a memorial to the Legislature, to request that the 
documents procured by the Agent in Europe be deposited 
with this Society." 

After full discussion, the Preamble and Resolutions were 
adopted, and the following Committee appointed : — 

Thomas De Witt, D. D., Henry R. Schoolcraft, George 
Folsom, W. B. Lawrence, AVm. L. Stone and Harmanus 
Bleecker. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 13 

Dr. Forry resumed and concluded the reading of his paper 
on " Vital Statistics." The intention of Dr. Forry to extend 
his scientific investigations and publish them in a volume, 
prevented the Society from receiving a copy, as requested. 

At the stated meeting in March, the Revised Constitution 
and By-Laws, reported by the Executive Committee, were 
adopted by the Society and ordered to be printed. 

S. De Witt Bloodgood, Esq., read a paper on the " Ro- 
mance of the Early History of New York," which the Com- 
mittee regret exceedingly they have not been able to procure 
for publication, pursuant to the request of the Society. 

At the stated meeting in April, the Executive Committee 
reported the selection of the following deputation, to attend 
the anniversary meeting of the National Institute, at the 
City of Washington, on the 5th day of that month, viz. : — 

Hon. Albert Gallatin, Hon. Luther Bradish, 

W. B. Lawrence, Hon. Hamilton Fish, 

Thomas De Witt, D. D., Hon. B. F. Butler, 

Prof Edward Robinson, D. D., John W. Francis, M. D., 

Hon. GuLiAN C. Verplanck, Prof. Cyrus Mason, D. D., 

Prof. John W. Draper, Joseph Blunt, 

Prosper M. Wetmore, George Folsom, 
H. R. Schoolcraft. 

Hon. B. F. Butler read a paper on the " History of the 
first Amendments to the Constitution of the United States." 
The Executive Committee would feel much more regret for 
their inability to procure the instructive paper of Mr. Butler 
for publication, as requested by the Society, had they not 
reason to believe that as part of a larger work, it will at no 
distant day be laid before the public in a durable form. 

Mr. John R. Bartlett was appointed to fill the vacancy in 
the Executive Committee occasioned by the resignation of 
John L. Stephens, Esq. 

The Secretary read a Correspondence with the Historical 
Society of Maryland, on the subject of Branch Associations, 
or Chapters. 

2 



14 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

At the stated meeting in May, Hon. Gulian C. Verplaiick 
presented an original manuscript map of Albany County, 
drawn before the erection of Tryon County, and supposed to 
be of the date of 1750. The map was referred to the Com- 
mittee on Indian names for examination, and to report 
thereon. 

Dr. Jacob Beakley read a paper on the " Progress of the 
Caucasian race in Science and Civilization." 

At the stated meeting in June, Hon. John W. Edmonds 
read a paper entitled " Some Passages in the Life of Gov- 
ernor Tompkins." At the request of the Society, a copy of 
this excellent biographical sketch was furnished for publi- 
cation, and it will form a part of the Appendix to this 
Report. 

At the special meeting held on the 18th of June, various 
subjects of a business nature were disposed of preparatory 
to the usual summer recess. 

The original Commission of Benedict Arnold, the traitor, 
as Commander of the expedition against Ticonderoga, in 
July, 1775, was presented by Jonathan Edwards, Esq. 

The Society then adjourned until the first Tuesday in 
October. 

The seventh stated meeting was held on the 2d of October, 
and was attended by upwards of an hundred and fifty gen- 
tlemen, members and visitors. 

An original portrait of Hon. John Quincy Adams was 
presented by the Artist, Mr. Edward D. Marchant. 

The Executive Committee were instructed to take the 
necessary steps for celebrating in an appropriate manner, 
in conformity with the By-Laws, the Fortieth Anniversary 
of the Society. 

Mr. Wetmore announced the decease of John Pintard, 
LL. D., and introduced resolutions of respect for his 
memory, which were seconded by Philip Hone, Esq., and 
unanimously adopted. 

The death of William L. Stone was announced by Mr. 
Jay, upon whose motion, seconded by Marshall S. Bidwell, 
Esq., appropriate resolutions of respect were adopted. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 15 

The attention of the members was specially called to the 
examihation of a collection of Mexican Antiquities, presen- 
ted by Mr. B. M. Norman, and on motion of Mr. Folsom, 
the thanks of the Society were voted to Mr. Norman. 

William B. Hodgson, Esq., of Savannah, Ga., read a 
paper entitled " Remarks upon the Past History and Present 
Condition of Morocco, Algiers, and the Barbary Regencies." 
In the course of his essay, a copy of which was requested for 
preservation by the Society, Mr. Hodgson gave an interesting 
biographical sketch of the late William Shaler, formerly 
Consul of the United States at Algiers. 

George Gibbs, Esq., read a historical account of the 
Leaden Statue of George III. erected in the Bowling Green of 
this city prior to the Revolution. This paper will appear 
in the Appendix. 

On motion of Dr. Edward Robinson, the Domestic Corres- 
ponding Secretary was requested to obtain from the Archives 
of the State of Connecticut, copies of any documents relating 
to an application to the Legislature of that State, about the 
year 1720, from the first Presbyterian Church in this City, 
for liberty to take up contributions for completing the edifice 
of said church. 

A Committee, consisting of Mr. Schoolcraft, Mr. Wetmore 
and Mr. Bidwell, were appointed to make application to the 
widow of the late William L. Stone, for such of the MSS. 
left by him, on historical subjects, as she might be disposed 
to deposit with the Society for future publication, 

Henry R. Schoolcraft, Esq., was appointed to the vacancy 
in the Executive Committee, occasioned by the death of 
Colonel Stone. 

At the stated meeting in November, the Chairman of the 
Executive Committee reported that arrangements had been 
made for celebrating the Fortieth Anniversary of the Society 
by an Address from John Romeyn Brodhead, Esq., and a pub- 
lic Dinner ; that many distinguished guests from various 
parts of the Union had been invited ; and that deputations 
were expected to be present from the several Historical 
Societies in the United States. The various details of the 
arrangements will be found in the Appendix. 



16 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Mr. Brodhead, in compliance with a previous request of 
the Society, gave an oral account of his proceedings in 
Europe, as the Agent of the State, detailing some of the 
difficulties he encountered in the prosecution of his labors, 
and the general results of his mission. 

At the special meeting held on the 20th of November, 
being the Fortieth Anniversary of the Society, the invited 
guests and deputations from other States were received in 
the Historical Rooms at five o'clock, P. M. A large number 
of delegates and guests were introduced to the President 
and Officers of the Society, by the Committee of Reception. 

After the transaction of ordinary business, the Society 
and their guests moved in procession to the Church of the 
Messiah, where the chair was taken by William Beach 
Lawrence, Esq., First Vice President, and after appropriate 
music, prayer was offered by Rev. Dr. De Witt, Second 
Vice President. 

The Address of Mr. Brodhead was listened to with atten- 
tion and satisfaction by a large audience of ladies and gen- 
tlemen. The closing prayer was offered by Rev. Dr. 
Milnor of New York. The company then proceeded to the 
New York Hotel, and partook of an entertainment provided 
for the occasion. A particular account of the proceedings 
at the Dinner will be found in the Appendix. 

At the last stated meeting, in December, the Chairman of 
the Executive Committee submitted a report, detailing the 
proceedings of the recent celebration, accompanied by a 
resolution of thanks to Mr. Brodhead for his excellent 
Address. The resolution was unanimously adopted, and a 
request made for a copy of th,e Address, to be preserved 
among the Archives of the Society. The Committee have 
the pleasure to add, that the request has been complied 
with, and that the publication will be immediately com- 
menced. 

Mr. Gibbs read a letter from Mr. John F. Watson of 
Pennsylvania, on the subject of sixteen volumes, MSS. folio^ 
of the Journals of the House of Commons, now on the shelves 
of this Library. These volumes extend from 1650 to 1675, 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 17 

and embrace a full record of the transactions of Parlia- 
ment in the time of the Commonwealth and the Protectorate. 

The Corresponding Secretary read letters from Mr. Geo. 
A. Ward, and Mr. Gabriel P. Dissosway, respecting the 
early emigration of the Huguenots to the Virginia Planta- 
tions. Measures were adopted to procure if practicable the 
curious relics mentioned in the letters, and to induce Mr. 
Dissosway to prepare a memoir of the Huguenots in 
America. 

A letter was also read from Mr. Robert Greenhow, of 
Washington City, on subjects of historical interest. On 
motion of Mr. Gibbs, Mr. Greenhow was requested, by reso- 
lution, to prepare a memoir of the discovery and exploration 
of the Atlantic Coast of America, as connected with the 
history of this Continent. 

On motion of Mr. Folsom, it was resolved that a com- 
mittee be appointed to ascertain the spot where Colonel 
Knowlton of the American Army fell, at the commencement 
of the Revolution, with a view to the erection of a monu- 
ment to his bravery and patriotism. 

Mr. John B. Murray stated to the Society, that he desired 
to deposit in the rooms the ancient printing press, procured 
by him in England, and which had been used by Doctor 
Benjamin Franklin. The Executive Committee, to whom 
the subject was referred, have authorized the deposit of this 
interesting relic among the collections in the gallery. 

Mr. Giles F. Yates, of Schenectady, a Corresponding 
member, read a paper on the aboriginal topographical 
names in the State of New York, showing by numerous 
illustrations their history, etymology and definition. A copy 
of this paper was requested for publication. 

Mr. John R. Bartlett read an amusing paper on the 
history of " American Provincialisms." A copy was re- 
quested for publication, but the Committee regret to say 
they have not been able to obtain it. They have reason to 
believe that Mr. Bartlett has greatly extended his curious 
researches in this hitherto untrodden field, and they indulge 



18 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

the hope that the result of his labors will be given to the 
public. 

Doctor Charles A. Lee, submitted resolutions of respect 
for the memory of Doctor Samuel Forry, which were unan- 
imously adopted. 

After the literary exercises of these stated meetings were 
respectively completed, the members and visitors were pro- 
vided with simple refreshments in the gallery of the library, 
and spent together an hour in general conversation. The 
Committee cannot forbear to remark, that the change in 
our Constitution and mode of transacting business, by which 
the less interesting arrangements and the duller details have 
been entrusted to an Executive Committee, has in their 
judgment been productive of much good, although it has 
thrown a great burden and responsibility on that committee. 
Indeed it is not easy to perceive how any considerable part 
even of the useful and agreeable which has been provided 
by the Society during the past year, could in any other man- 
ner have been furnished to the members, the public, and 
the cause of historical learning. 

In addition to the regular meetings of the Society, as 
herein detailed, soirees were given during the last season 
by Messrs. Frederic De Peyster, Peter G. Stuyvesant and 
Hickson W. Field, which had an agreeable effect in bring- 
ing together the members, distinguished strangers, and men 
of letters in the happy freedom of social and literary 
intercourse. 

The Committee have the satisfaction of reporting a very 
considerable increase in the number of resident and corres- 
ponding members during the year. It has been deemed 
advisable to restrict in some measure the recommendations 
for the degree of honorary membership. 

The elections in the several Classes during the year, 
have been as follows : 

Honorary, - - - 14 

Corresponding, - - - 39 

Resident, - - - 121 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 19 

The Society now numbers of active resident members 
about three hundred and twenty. 

The Report of the Librarian, exhibits a large increase to 
the Library and collections daring the year. Many valu- 
able donations have been received, and some purchases of 
desirable works have been made. The additions to our 
collection of Maps, MSS., and Pamphlets, comprise many 
works of exceeding rarity. Full details on this subject will 
be found in the Librarian's Report, but it is proper that the 
Committee should allude in this connection to the names of 
a number of gentlemen whose liberality entitles them to 
this public acknowledgment. 

Among those who have thus liberally favored the Society 
with gifts of valuable Books, Maps, Charts, Antiquities, &c., 
during the year, and to whom thanks have been voted in 
the regular course of its proceedings, are the following: — 

The French Minister of Commerce, through the medium 
of Robert Walsh, Esq., American Consul at Paris ; Hon. 
Joseph Hume, M. P. ; Hon. C. A. Wickliff, Post Master 
General ; James Lenox, Esq. ; Peter G. Stuyvesant, Esq. ; 
Hon. Gulian C. Verplanck ; J. Romeyn Brodhead, Esq. ; 
George Folsom, Esq. ; George Gibbs, Esq. ; Joseph G. 
Cogswell, Esq. ; B. M. Norman, Esq., of New Orleans ; S. 
G. Arnold, Esq., of Providence, R. I. ; Major James D. Gra- 
ham, U. S. A. ; James Phalen, Esq. ; Messrs. Bartlett & 
Welford ; R. Kingsland, Esq. ; John F. Watson, Esq., of 
Pennsylvania ; Henry Brown, Esq., of Illinois ; Alexander 
W. Bradford, Esq. ; George A. Ward, Esq. 

The Library has been opened to the members, and to visi- 
tors properly introduced, during the accustomed hours, 
throughout the year. The Assistant Librarian has been 
regular in his attendance, and the Committee with pleasure 
bear testimony to the faithful discharge of his duties. 

The Report of the Treasurer presents a gratifying state- 
ment of the condition of the finances of the Society. The 
Treasury has been carefully managed, and so far as the cur- 



20 PROCEEDINGS OP THE 

rent receipts and disbursements are concerned, is in a pros- 
perous state. The regular income being now about sixteen 
hundred dollars per annum, is fully adequate to meet all the 
current unavoidable expenditures, and we are for the 
first time in many years free from the incumbrance of 
debt. 

In connection with the subject of finances, the Committee 
cannot omit to urge with renewed emphasis, considerations 
to which the attention of the Society was called in the last 
Annual Report, and from which the lapse of a year has 
taken none of their interest or importance. The Committee 
refer to the subject of the repairs, binding and arranging 
the Library, and completing a catalogue of the books and 
collections, in a manner worthy of the Society. The Com- 
mittee have felt themselves authorized to commence the 
preparation of a catalogue, but the more extended work 
suggested is not within the compass of our regular income. 
It is one of those occasional expenses and extraordinary 
calls for disbursement, which are none the less important to 
the highest usefulness of the Society, because they are un- 
usual, and cannot, in a body constituted like this, be provi- 
ded for by its ordinary means. 

The Society has convenient and comfortable rooms, open 
and regularly attended by a competent officer — an exten- 
sive library of books of rare historical value , rich collec- 
tions of manuscripts, documents, medals, and antiquities, 
illustrative of our early annals, gathered to meet the wants 
and aid the inquiries of those who would look into the records 
of the past, or add to the general knowledge of our history 
as a nation. 

The unfortunate embarrassments of the Society in former 
years — the repeated removals of its property — and its hith- 
erto scanty pecuniary resources, have been the concurring 
causes of imperfections and unsupplied wants which ought 
no longer to exist. Books have been injured and need re- 
pairing, some sets have been broken, and the missing vol- 
umes should be supplied ; a number of subjects need to be 
filled up by purchase, and large quantities of books, pam- 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 21 

phlets, and journals are packed away, unbound, and if not 
speedily attended to, must become liable to serious injury. 
They are all valuable for purposes of history, and the loss 
of many could not easily be supplied. The Library still 
remains Avithout a perfect catalogue. 

A Library of reference of scarce, old, and unfamiliar 
books, journals, pamphlets, and manuscript documents, 
without proper arrangement and a carefully prepared cata- 
logue, is deprived of much of its value, even to those who 
are daily within its rooms ; while to those at a distance who 
need its aid, and to the cause of historical inquiry gener- 
ally, it is almost as though it did not exist. We should 
possess every known work of authority on American his- 
tory, be able to place in every public library in the country 
indices to our collections, and supply to individuals the 
convenient means of knowing and using the materials 
within our control. In accomplishing this, we shall indeed 
be rendering good service to the cause of history. 

It is quite plain that the current income of the Society is 
inadequate to sustain this enlarged expenditure, and during 
the past year a Finance Committee was formed in the hope 
that something might be done to supply our deficiencies. 
Circumstances did not then favor the work, and although 
several liberal subscriptions w^ere made by members, but 
little in the aggregate was accomplished. 

Gentlemen whose leisure might otherwise have been de- 
voted to their private pursuits and interests, have not un- 
willingly given to us their time and talents, in preparing 
useful and interesting papers for our instruction and grati- 
fication. Others have cheerfully submitted to the labor of 
dull details — the uninteresting toil of committee duty, and 
the vexation of constant care — by all of which the Society 
is maintained in its position of^ usefulness, respectability 
and honor. 

There are other gentlemen whom it is our pride and plea- 
sure to number on the list of members — gentlemen to whom 
Providence has given, in the most generous measure, those 
substantial rewards which are rarely denied to men who 



22 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

devote large and properly constituted minds industriously 
and intelligently to the acquisition of honorable wealth in 
the pursuits of commerce. Ought they not to ask them- 
selves what is their duty in the premises ? Will they not 
with characteristic liberality answer the appeal which is 
made to them. 

The Committee have no desire, nor is it their province 
importunately to urge the claims of the Historical Society 
upon the liberality of its members or the public. But 
they feel it to be an imperative duty to ask earnestly, in the 
first commercial city of the Union — wealthy and powerful, 
and justly proud of her position, character and resources — 
whether a quiet sense of duty and a feeling of just liber- 
ality, ought not to unite with a worthy sentiment of New 
York pride, in placing the Library of this Institution upon 
a footing that shall render it an honor to our citizens. All 
which is respectfully submitted. 

By order of the Executive Committee. 

PROSPER M. WETMORE, 

Chairman. 

Erastus C. Benedict, Secretary 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 23 



TREASURER'S REPORT. 



The Treasurer of the New York Historical Society re- 
ports : 

That since the date of his last report, January 1, 1844, 
there has been received into the Treasury — 

Balance of joint acc't with University, $5 12 
Cash, error in account April, 1843, 3 00 

Cash received from Mercantile Library, 3 00 
Dues collected from Members, 2015 00 — 2026 12 

Amount paid during the same period, 
for all claims on the Society, $1970 66 



Leaving in the Treasury, #55 46 

During the last year, there has been paid out for new 
boqk-cases and fixtures, and for old claims, some of them of 
many years standing, $678 85, and it is believed that the 
Society is now entirely free from all debts and liabilities of 
every kind There are still uncollected about $500 of dues 
of the past year. 

The time seems now to have come when the Society may 
enlarge its accommodations, and obtain from its mem- 
bers and the public, the means of completing its catalogue, 
binding up its accumulated books and pamphlets, and pub- 
lishing such manuscripts as would serve at once to enlighten 
the public mind, and increase the fair fame of the Institution. 

C. MASON, Treasurer, 
January 7, 1845. 



24 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 



LIBRARIAN'S REPORT, 



The Librarian herewith submits to the Society his Annual 
Report : 

The most important subject at present connected with 
this department is the preparation of the catalogue ; the delay 
in which has been heretofore owing to the want of provision 
of the funds required by the plan originally contemplated. 
Preliminary arrangements were in fact made, under a 
resolution of the Executive Committee of the 21st of May 
last, but no money being appropriated therefor, and the 
state of the Treasury at the time not warranting a draft 
upon it, the commencement was delayed until the action of 
the Finance Committee appointed by the Society. This 
Committee have as yet made no report, and the idea of 
effecting a full and complete repair and restoration of the 
different objects in the library and cabinet, in connection 
with a systematic and an alphabetical catalogue, has there- 
fore necessarily been abandoned. The Librarian has how- 
ever been authorized by a recent vote of the Executive 
Committee to proceed with the preparation of an Alpha- 
betical Descriptive Catalogue, independent of the other 
objects, and a sum has been appropriated for the purpose 
which it is supposed will be sufficient. He has now the satis- 
faction to state that this has already been commenced and 
will be completed within the present year. The analytical 
catalogue which in a library of this kind is the really 
valuable one, must however, be the subject of after prepara- 
tion, and its arrangement is designed to be entirely in 
reference to the object of the Society itself, American His- 
tory, and more particularly to the history of our own State ; 
those books w^hich have no especial bearing on these subjects 
or to history in general, being arranged by subjects under a 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 25 

general department of Miscellaneous Works. This part 
will contain bibliographical notices of the rarer and more 
valuable books ; and the Alphabetical Catalogue — the names 
of donors in cases where they have been presented. 

Notwithstanding that the ordinary funds of the Society 
will admit of a general catalogue being thus gradually 
made, without aid from subscriptions, the Librarian can- 
not refrain from again urging upon the Society the great 
importance of raising a sum of money which may be used 
in putting our collections into a proper state for convenient 
use and more certain preservation. A catalogue, of manu- 
scripts which cannot be referred to, and of pamphlets, coins, 
maps and engravings, which must be locked up, will be of 
very little use. The quantity of material thus unavailable 
at present, is very great ; and it is due to the gentlemen 
whose donations to the Societ}' have been so liberal, as 
well as desirable for our own sakes, that this should be 
remedied. 

Again, opportunities are constantly occurring for maldng 
purchases of much value to our Library, often at low prices, 
which cannot be taken advantage of without a fund re- 
served for the purpose. During some years past there 
have been no means of adding to it by occasional purchase, 
under any circumstances ; the few books that have been 
thus acquired having all been bought by special appropria- 
tions, and often to the embarrassment of the Society. It 
would undoubtedly be preferable that a sum should be 
raised and invested in permanent security, sufficient to 
defray our ordinary expenses from its income, and that the 
money arising from annual dues should be left free for pur- 
chases. It can hardly be supposed that in this city so 
moderate an amount as ten thousand dollars, which would 
be enough for the purpose, could not be raised by subscrip- 
tion, to place on a stable footing so interesting an institu- 
tion. If, however, this shall not be undertaken, it is most 
essential that the sum required by the present demands of 
the Library should at be once obtained. 

In furtherance of the reasons for providing a permanent 
3 



26 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

fund, should be stated the maintenance of the character of 
the Library. Donations, however valuable in themselves, 
must necessarily be of a miscellaneous character. The par- 
ticular departments in which the Library is deficient will be 
unknown to all but those in daily contact with its shelves, 
and to keep up a really well selected collection, the Libra- 
rian must have the means of purchasing according to his 
judgment, as opportunity offers, and upon some definite and 
consistent plan. We certainly have every reason to be 
gratified with the character of much of our Library, but 
there are in its different departments, very glaring defi- 
ciencies. 

With these remarks, the subject of a subscription is left 
to the consideration of the Society. 

The Library and Cabinet during the past year have been 
materially increased, as will appear by the appended cata- 
logue. Of the donations, a few may be more particularly 
designated, from their value or interest, and of these I would 
specify 

The valuable History of the Indian Tribes, by Hall and 
McKinney, completed by the numbers, from 14 to 20 — pre- 
sented by Peter G. Stuyvesant, Esq. Lowrie and Clarke's edi- 
tion of American State Papers, in twenty-one volumes, folio, 
presented by James Lenox, Esq. A valuable collection of 
Mexican Antiquities, presented by Mr. B. M. Norman, of New 
Orleans. The ancient Dutch Tracts relating to New Amster- 
dam, including the original edition of Vanderdonck, pre- 
sented by Mr. Brodhead, as well as the collection of cuttings 
from English newspapers, extending from 1()68 to 1783, 
also from that gentleman. Catesby's Natural History of 
Carolina, in tw o folio volumes with colored plates, the gift 
of James Phalen, Esq. The Bibliotheca Historica of Meusel, 
on our table this evening, presented by Joseph G. Cogswell, 
Esq. Morton's Crania Americana, from Mr. Samuel J. Beebe. 
Folio Atlas of Battles of the Revolution, presented by Bart- 
lett and Welford. The Parchment Map of the Iroquois 
territory, presented by the Hon. Gulian C. Verplanck. The 
Portrait of Mr. Gallatin, by William H. Powell, and that of 



t 



NE^y YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 27 

John Quincy Adams, by Edward D. Marchant, from their 
respective painters ; the portrait of the Hon. Lewis Morris, 
presented by Mr. William A. Whitehead, this evening, 
as well as that of Lord Cornwallis, presented by him at a 
former meeting, and the portrait of the Hon. Peter Van 
Schaack, presented by Frederic De Peyster, Esq. The 
Documents of Congress for the past year have been received 
from the State Department, and the folio collection of Post 
Office Maps, from the Post Master General ; the Laws and 
Journals of the States of Vermont and Kentucky, have 
also been received from those States. 

The Chamber of Commerce, at the instance of General 
Wetmore, has deposited the two full-length portraits of 
Lieutenant Governor Cadwallader Colden and of Alexander 
Hamilton, now in the gallery. A considerable number of 
volumes and tracts, the gil't of various authors, transmitted 
by Mr. Alexander Vattemare from Paris, in pursuance of the 
plan originated by him of universal exchanges, also de- 
mands notice and acknowledgment in this place. The Li- 
brarian, however, is constrained to say, that the expense 
attendant on the system, and the very desultory character 
of books thus obtained, render it unadvisable to continue it. 
Even if our funds permitted us on all occasions to make a 
suitable return, it would be inexpedient, inasmuch as we 
must necessarily be better judges of our own desiderata 
than a gentleman, however intelligent, disconnected with 
and residing far from tke Society, and consequently the 
amount could be more advantageously invested by our- 
selves in a direct manner than by purchasing books to send 
in return for those we never should have purchased. 

^ GEORGE GIBBS, 

Librarian, 
January, 1845. 



28 PROCEEDINGS OF THB 



LIBRARY HOURS. 



The following will be the hours during which the Library 
will be open for the ensuing year : 

Between October 1st and April 1st, from 10 A. M. to 
2 P. M., and from 7 P. M. to 9 P. M. 

Between April 1st and October 1st, from 10 A. M. to 
2 P. M., and from 4 P. M. to 6. P. M. 



Persons introduced by a member, during the above hours, 
can have free access to the Library for the purpose of 
consultation. 



NEW YORK HISTOEICAI. SOCIETV. 29 



OBJECTS 



COLLECTION BY THE SOCIETY. 



Books and documents relative to the general history of 
America. 

Accounts of early discoveries, explorations and conquests, 
in either continent, of voyages and travels, the relations of 
settlers, colonists, adventurers and missionaries. 

Accounts of the different aboriginal tribes inhabiting 
America ; descriptions of their manners, customs and con- 
dition ; treatises upon their languages, origin and antiquities. 
Civil, political, and military histories of the nations and 
states of European origin, in America, especially of the 
United States ; books and documents relative to particular 
events in their history ; to questions of public moment in 
their government, politics and laws. 

Biographical memoirs of eminent and remarkable per- 
sons in America, or who have been connected with its 
settlement or history. 

Laws, journals, records and proceedings of Congress, 
legislatures, municipal bodies, general assemblies, conven- 
tions and committees ; judicial reports, trials by courts-mar- 
tial, impeachment, and by jury ; works on civil law, and 
the law of nations ; diplomatic correspondence, and docu- 
ments relative to treaties and negociations. 

Topographical descriptions of cities, towns, counties, and 
districts of country at various periods, and whatever relates 
to the progressive geography of the country. 

Magazines ; Reviews ; Newspapers ; state, city and county 
Registers ; Almanacs, and other periodical publications, 
particularly such as appeared prior to the year 1783. 



30 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Minutes and transactions of societies for political, literary 
and scientific purposes. 

Speeches in Congress or in Legislatures; orations, ser- 
mons, essays and discourses, delivered or published on any 
public occasion, or which concern any public transaction or 
remarkable character or event. 

Accounts of Universities and Colleges ; catalogues of 
libraries and collections. 

Documents and reports of associations and incorporations 
for the purposes of banking, manufacturing, trading, inter- 
nal improvement, or the promotion of the mechanic arts. 

Documents relating to public education ; the prevention 
and punishment of crime ; to prisons and poor houses ; to 
public asylums, hospitals and charities. 

Reports of missionary, and other religious and charitable 
societies and associations. 

Proceedings of Ecclesiastical conventions, synods, assem- 
blies, presbyteries and societies, of all denominations of 
Christians. 

Statistical essays, documents and tables ; tables of dis- 
eases, births and deaths, and of population; of meteorolo- 
gical observations and of climate ; of commerce, manufac- 
tures and agriculture. 

Manuscripts relative to the above subjects ; all papers, 
essays and documents of an historical character ; corres- 
pondence of prominent individuals, autographs and ancient 
writings. 

Maps and charts, especially those of an early date ; plans 
of battles, cities and fortifications. 

Busts, portraits and prints of eminent men ; pictures and 
engravings illustrating historical events ; designs of public 
buildings and other virorks ; views of cities and remarkable 
places. 

Coins and medals, of all countries and ages. 

Indian antiquities, utensils, garments and weapons. 

Curiosities, to which an antiquarian or historical value is 
attached. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 31 



CATALOGUE OF ADDITIONS 

TO THE 

LIBRARY IN 1844. 



BOOKS AND PAMPHLETS. 

Alexandri Tralliani, Opera. Libri Duodecim. 12mo. London, 

1576. — Gift of Benj. P. Poore, Esq., Paris. 
Aeliani, Varise Histori, Libri XIV., 12mo. Geneva, 1630. — 

Gift of Benj. P. Poore, Esq., Paris. 
Arphaxad, A Chaldean Tale, (Russian,) 3 vols. 8vo. Moscow, 

1793, Gift of Simeon Baldwin, Esq. 
Antimasonic Pamphlets, with Journals of Antimasonic Conventions. 

(See Index in each volume,) 2 vols, 8vo. — G ft of Henry Gassett, 

Esq., Boston. 
America ; Cuttings from several of the leading London Journals, 

of articles relating to the American Colonies, Provinces, and 

Plantations, from 1668 to 1783. — Gift of John R. Brodhead, Esq, 
Aall, Jacob. Snorre Sturleson's norske Kongers Sagaer. Folio, 

3 vols, in one. Christiania, 1838-9. — Gift of the Author, through 

C. E. Hahicht, Esq., Swed. and Norw. Consul. 
American State Papers, Documents, Lrgislative and Executive, of 

the Congress of the U. S., from the First Session 1st, to the 

Second Session of the 22d Congress, inclusive, March 3d, 1789 

to March 3d, 1833. 21 vols, folio. Washington, 18S3.— Gift 

of James Lenox, Esq. 
Annals of the Lyceum of Natural History, vols. 1, 2, 3, and Part 

1 of vol. 4. 4 vols. 8vo. — Gift of the Lyceum. 
Atti della Terza Riunione degli Scienziati Italiani, tenuta in 

Firenze, Nel Settembre del 1841, 4to. Firenze, 1841. — Gift of 

the Cavalier Vincenzo Antinori, Florence. 
Brown, Henry. The History of Illinois, from its first Discovery 

and Settlement, to the present time. 8vo, New York, 1844. — 

Gift of the Author. 



32 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Bossi, Luigi. Histoire de Christophe Colomb, suivre de sa Corres- 

pondance, etc. Traduite de L'ltalien de Bossi, 8vo. Paris, 

1824. — Gift of George Folsom, Esq. 
Boyer, Le Baron. Traite des Maladies Chirurgicales, etc. Pub- 

liee par le baron Phillippe Boyer, Tome Premier, Svo. Paris, 

1844.— Gj/i of the Editor, Dr. P. Boyer. 
Blue Book. See United States. 
Burke, William. The Mineral Springs of Western Virginia, with 

remarks on their use, etc., 12mo. New York, 1842. — Gift of E, 

A. Duyckinck, Esq. 
Bowen, Abel. The Naval Monument, containing accounts of the 

Battles of the Navies of Great Britain and the United States, 

during the late War, and of the War, with 25 Engravings, &c. 

Svo. Boston, 1830. — Gift of George H. Moore. 
Bullock, W. Sketch of a Journey through the Western States of 

North America, etc., with a description of Cincinnati, etc., Svo. 

London, 1827. — Gft of George Folsom, Esq. 
Bradford, Alex. W. American Antiquities and Researches into 

the History and Origin of the Red Race, Svo. New York, 1841. 

Gft of the Author. 
Bernard, Elder David. Light on Masonry. A Collection of 

Documents on Speculative Free Masonry, etc., 12mo. Utica, 

1829. — Gft of Henry Gassetl, Esq., Boston. 
Benson, Egbert. Memoir read before the Historical Society of the 

State of New York, 31st December, 1816. Svo. New York, 

1817. — Gift of J. A. Binda. (This copy of the first edition 

contains many original MS. notes by the Author, which were 

printed in an Appendix to the edition of 1825.) 
Binney, Horace. See Girard Will Case. 

Barstow, George. The History of New Hampshire, from its Dis- 
covery in 1614 to the passage of the Toleration Act in 1819, 

Svo. Concord, 1842. 
Backus. The Radii, Newspaper published by a Deaf Mute, 2 

years, some numbers missing. — Gift of O. W. Morris, Esq. 
Clap, Roger, Memoirs of, 1630. Number One of the Collection 
of the Dorchester Antiquarian and Historical Society, 12mo. 
Boston, 1844. — Gift of the Society. 
Convention. Journal, Acts, and Proceedings of the, which formed 
. the Constitution of the United States. Svo. Boston, 1819. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 33 

\ 

Cape Breton. The Importance and Advantage of, truly stated and 
impartially considered, with proper maps, 8vo. London, 1746. 

. National Prejudice opposed to the National Interest, 

&c., in a letter to Sir John Barnard, Knight, 8vo. London, 1748. 

Campbell, Charles. The Bland Papers ; being a selection from 
the MSS. of Col. Theodorick Bland, Jr., of Prince George Co., 
Virginia, with an Introduction and Memoir, 2 vols. 8vo. in one. 
Petersburg, 1840-43. — Gift of the Editor. 

Chadwick, Edwin. A Supplementary Report on the Results of a 
Special Inquiry into the Practice of Interment in Towns. Pre- 
sented to Parliament, etc., 8vo. London, 1843. — Gift of the 
Hon. Joseph Hume. 

Campbell, Wm. W. A Memoir of Judith S. Grant, late Mission- 
ary to Persia, 24mo. New York, 1844. — Gift of the Author. 

Catesby, Mark. Natural History of Carolina, Florida and the 
Bahama Islands, etc. French and English, colored Plates. 
2 vols, folio. London, 1754. — Gift of James Phalen, Esq. 

Catherwood, Frederick. Views of Ancient Monuments in Central 
America, Chiapas, and Yucatan. 

Curwen, Samuel. Journal and Letters, during the American 
Revolution, with Illustrative Documents and Biographic Notices, 
etc. : by George Atkinson Ward. Second Edition, 8vo. Lon- 
don and New York, 1844. — Gift of the Editor. 

Catalogue of the Mercantile Library of New York, 8vo. New 
York, 1844.— G?// of the Board of Direclion M. L. A. 

Chihuahua. El Noticioso de — Periodico Oficial. A file of the 
Official Paper of the Department of Chihuahua, various dates 
between 1835-8. — Gift of Josiah Gregg, Esq. 

Compendium of the Census of 1840. Folio. Washington. — Gift 
of Hon. Hamilton Fish. 

Cooley, James E. The American in Egypt, with Rambles through 
Arabia Petreae and the Holy Land, during the years 1839 and 
1840. 8vo. New York, 18i2.— Gift of Evert A. Duyckick, Esq. 

Disturnell, J. The Northern Traveller, &c., 16mo. New York, 
1844.— G?/i! of the Publisher. 

X , The Picturesque Tourist, 16mo. New York, 1844. — - 

Gift of the Publisher. 

Dorchester Antiquarian and Historical Society ; Collections of— 
Number one. Memoirs of Roger Clap, 1630, 12mo. Boston, 
1844.— Gj/"^ of the Society. 



34 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Duane, William, Jr. Passages from the Remembrancer of Christo- 

pher Marshall, etc., 12mo. Phil., ISS9.— Gift of the Editor, (2 

cooies.) 
Dunglison, Robley. A Discourse in Commemoration of Peter S. 

Duponceau, LL. D., late Pres't. of the American Philosophical 

Society, 8vo. Philadelphia, 1844. 
Deaf and Dumb. Reports of the New York Institution for the In- 

struction of the Deaf and Dumb. [14 in number, various years.] 

Gift of O. W. Morris, Esq. 
Dymond, Jonathan. Essays on the Principles of Morality, 12mo. 

1844. — Gift of the Publishers, Collins, Brother ^ Co. 
Elliott, Rt. Rev. Stephen, Jr. "A High Civilization the Moral 

Duty of Georgians." A Discourse before the Georgia Historical 

Society, at their 5th Anniversary, 1844. 8vo. Savannah, 1844. 

— Gift of the Society. 
Frieze, Jacob. A Concise History of the efforts to obtain an Ex- 

tension of Suffrage in Rhode Island, from the year 1811 to 1842, 

2d edition, 12mo. Providence, 18^2.— Gift of S. G. Arnold, 

Esq. 
Farmer, John, (with Jacob B. Moore.) A Gazetteer of the State 

of New Hampshire. Embellished with an accurate Map of the 

State and other Engravings, 12mo. Concord, 1823. — Gift of 

George H. Moore. 
Free Masonry. Its Pretensions exposed, &c. ; its dangerous Ten- 
dency Exhibited, etc. By a Master Mason, 8vo. New York, 

1828. — Gift of Henry Gassett, Esq., Boston. 
France, Statistique de la — 8 vols. 4to. Paris, 1837 — 42. — Gift of 

the French Minister of Commerce, through Robert Walsh, Esq., 

U. S. Consul at Paris. 
Gait, John. The Life and Studies of Benjamin West, Esq., &c., 

prior to his arrival in England, 8vo. Philadelphia, 1816. 
Gregg, Josiah. Commerce of the Prairies, or the Journal of a 

Santa Fe Trader, during eight expeditions across the Great 

Western Prairies, &c., with Maps and Engravings, 2 vols. 12mo. 

New York, 1844. — Gift of the Author. 
Greenhovv, Robert. Memoir, Historical and Political, on the N, 

W. Coast of North America, etc., map. ; Senate Document, 174 

— 1st Sess. 26th Cong. 8vo. Washington, 1840. — Gift of Geo. 

H. Moore. 
Gurney, Jos. John. Familiar Letters to Henry Clay of Kentucky, 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 35 

describing a Winter in the West Indies, 8vo. New York, 1840. 
— Gifl of George H. Moore. 

Girard Will Case. Arguments of the Defendants' Counsel and 
Judgement of the Supreme Court U. S., in the Case of Vidal, et. 
al. vs. the City of Philadelphia. January, 1844. To which is 
added the Will of Stephen Girard, Bvo. Philadelphia, 1844. — 
Gifl of Thomas P. Cope, Esq. 

Greenhow, Robert. The History and Present Condition of Tripoli, 
with some accounts of the other Barbary States ; orig. pub. in 
the " Southern Lit. Messenger," 8vo. Richmond, 1835. — Gift 
of the Author. 

Gould, Marcus T. C. Report of the Trial of 24 Journeymen Tai- 
lors, charged with a Conspiracy, etc., 8vo, Phil., 1827. 

Hinton, John Howard. The History and Topography of the United 
States, illustrated with a series of Views, 2d edition, 2 vols. 4to. 
London, ISSi.—Gift of Alex. Slidell Mackenzie, U. S. N. 

Hague, William. An Historical Discourse, delivered at the Cele- 
bration of the 2d Centennial Anniversary of the 1st Baptist Chh. 
in Providence, Nov. 7, 1839 ; 12mo. Providence, 1839.— Giff 
of S. G. Arnold, Esq. 

Harris, Thaddeus Mason. Biographical Memorials of James Ogle- 
thorpe, Founder of the Colony of Georgia, in North America, 
Bvo. Boston, 1841. — Gift of John Jay, Esq. 

Heckewelder, John. A Narrative of the Mission of the United 
Brethren among the Delaware and Mohegan Indians, from 1740 
to 1808, etc.; 8vo. Philadelphia, 1S20.— Gift of George H. 
Moore. 

Hale, Salma. Annals of the Town of Keene, (N. H.) from its 
first settlement, in 1734, to the year 1790, 8vo. Concord, 1826. 
—Gift of George H. Moore. 

Hodgson, William B. Notes on Northern Africa, the Sahara and 
Soudan, etc. ; 8vo. New York, 1844. — Gift of the Author. 

Harris, John. Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, 2 
vols, folio. London, 1744-8. — Gift of Richards Kingsland, Esq. 

Izard, Ralph. Correspondence of Mr. Ralph Izard of South Caro- 
lina, from the year 1774 to 1804 ; with a short Memoir, Vol. I, 
12mo. New York, 1844. — Gift of Mrs. Anne Izard Deas. 

Journal of the American Oriental Society, Vol. I, Nos. I. II. 8vo. 
Boston, 18i^-l8U.—Gift of the Society. 

Jamaica. The Laws of, passed by the Assembly and confirmed 



36 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

I 

by His Majesty in Council, April 17, 1684. ; Folio. Map. Lon- 
don. 1684. 

Kidder, Daniel P. Mormonism and the Mormons ; a Historical 
View of the Rise and Progress of the sect, self-styled Latter Day 
Saints, 16mo. New York, 1842. — Gift of E. A. Duyckinck, 
Esq. 

Lauzun, M. Le Due de. Memoires, Svo. Paris, 1822. 

Le Brun, Henri. Aventures et Conquetes de Fernand Cortez au 
Mexique, 12mo. Tours, 1843. — Gift of George FoJsom, Esq. 

Lives of the Presidents of the U. S,, with Biographical Notices of 
the Signers of the Dec. of Ind., etc. ; with Portraits and Engra- 
vings, Svo. Brattleboro', (Vt.) 1839. — Gift of George H. Moore. 

Lelevel, Joachim. Histoire de Pologne, 2 torn. Svo. ; avec Atlas 
contenant les Tableaux Chronologiques et Genealogiques, et les 
Cartes Geographiques de DifTerentes Epoques. Paris et Lille, 
1844.— G/f^ of the Author. 

Laet, Joannes de. Novus orbis, seu Descriptionis Indiae Occiden- 
talis, Libri XVIII, etc. Folio. Lug. Bat. 1633. 

Las Casas, Barth. de. Istoria o' brevissima relatione della distrut- 
tione dell' Indiae Occidentalis, etc. Tradotta en Italiano dall' 
E. S. Giacomo Castellani gia Sotto nome di Francisco Bersabita, 
4to. Venetia, 1630. 

II supplice Schiavo Indiano, etc. Tradotto in Italiano, 

per opera di Marco Ginammi, 4to. Venetia, 1636. 

La Liberta Pretesa dal Supplici schiavo Indiano, etc. 



Tradotto in Italiano per opera di Marco Ginammi, 4to. Vene- 
tia, 1640. 

Lambert, Edward R. History of the Colony of New Haven, before 
and after the Union with Connecticut, etc., 12mo. New Haven, 
1838. — Gft of George Folsom, Esq. 

Lovat, Memoirs of Lord, Svo. London, 1746. — Gft of A. S. Mac- 
kenzie, U. S. N. 

Law, John. Address delivered before the Vincennes Historical 
and Antiquarian Society, Feb'y. 22, 1839. Svo. Louisville, 
(Ky.) 1839.— Gj// of the Author. 

Lee, Charles A. Lee, M. D. An Introductory Discourse on Medi- 
cal Education, delivered to the Students of Geneva Medi- 
cal College, Oct. 1, 1844. Svo. Geneva, ISU.—Gift of the 
Author. 

Magazine. The American. For 1787-88, Svo. New York, 2 
vols. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 87' 

Moore, Clement C. Poems, 12mo. New York, 1844. — Gift of 
Messrs. Bartlett Sf Wcford. 

Mui-my, Hugh. The Encyclopedia of Geography, etc. Revised, 
with additions, by Thos. G. Bradford, 8vo. 3 vols, in two. Phila- 
delphia, 1843. 

Moore, Jacob B. (See John Farmer.) 

Marryatt, F. A Diary in America, with Remarks on its Institu- 
tions, 12mo. New York, 1839. Gft of George H. Moore. 

Moore, Jacob B. Annals of Concord, N. H., from its first Settle- 
ment, in 1726, to the year 1823 ; with Biographical Sketches 
and a Memoir of the Penacook Indians, 8vo. Concord, 1824. — 
Gift of George H. Moore. 

— . A Topographical and Historical Sketch of the Town of 

Andover, (N. H.) etc. 8vo. Concord, 1822. — Gft of George H. 
Moore. 

Moulton, Joseph W. New York 170 years ago, with a View and 
Explanatory Notes. 8vo. New York, Dec, 1843. — Gift of 
George Folsom, Esq. 

Muiioz, J. B. The History of the New World. Translated from 
the Spanish. With Notes by the Translator, Port, of Columbus 
and Map of Espanola, 8vo. Vol. I. London, 1797. 

Mai, Angelo. Catalogo di Papiri Egiziani della Biblioteca Vati- 
cana, etc. 4to. Roma, 1825. 

M'Kinney, Thomas L. and James Hall, History of the Indian 
Tribes of North America. Folio. With colored Engravings. 
[Nos. 14 to 20, completing the work.] — Gift of Pefer G. Stuyve- 
sant, Esq. 

Muratori, Ludovico Antonio. Annali d' Italia dal Principle dell' 
era Volgare sino all' anno 1750, colle Prefazione di G. Catalani, 
14 vols. 4to. Lucca, 1762-1770. Livorino, 1772. 

Meusel, J. G. Bibliotheca Historica, etc. 11 vols. 8vo. Lipsiae, 
1782-1804.— Gjf/; of Joseph G. Cogswell, Esq. 

M'Donald, Mrs. Mary Noel. Poems, 8vo. New York, 1844. — 
Gft of George Gibhs, Esq. 

Minor, B. B. Appeal to the Legislature of Virginia in behalf of 
her Colonial History, etc. 8vo. Richmond, 1844. — Gft of the 
Author. 

Macartney, Earl. Embassy to the Emperor of China, &c. d;c. 
8vo. London, 1797. — Gift of Rev. John Dowdney. 
4 



38 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Morton, Samuel George. Crania Americana ; or, a Comparative 

View of the Skulls of Various Aboriginal Nations of North and 

South America, &c. Folio. Philadelphia, 1839. — Gift of 

Samuel J. Beehee, Esq. 
Maldonado, L. F. Voyage de la Mer Atlantique a L'Occan Pa- 

cifique, etc., I'An MDLXXXVIII. [Translated from the Spanish 

into the French Language, 1812.] 
New World, The. (Newspaper) Vol. VII. 1843, 4to. New 

York. — Gft of the Publisher. 
New York. Transactions of the State Agricultural Society. 

Vols. I. II. III. for 1841-2-3. 3 vols. 8vo. Albany, 1842-4. 

— Gift of the Society. 
Nahuijs, Kolonel. Brieven over Bencoolen, Padang, etc. Bvo. 

Breda, 1827.— Gift of the Author. 
. Verzameling van Officiele Rapporten BetrefFende den 

Oorlog op Java, 1825-30, 4 vols. 8vo. Deventer, 1835-6. — 

Gift of the Author. 
Newell, Rev. C. History of the Revolution in Texas, particularly 

of the War of 1835-36, etc. 12mo. New York, 1838.— Gift of 

George H. Moore. 
Nieu Nederland. Vertoogh van Nieu Nederland, weghens de 

Ghelegentheit, Vruchtbaerheydt en soberen staet desselfs. 

In's Graven Hage, 1650. sm. 4to. — Gift of John R. Brodhcad, 

Esq. 
. Kort Verhael van Nieuw Nederlands, etc. sm. 4to. 

1662. — Gift of John R. Brodhead, Esq. 
. Naerder Klagh Vertoosrh aende Ho. Mo. Heeren Staten 



Generael, etc. sm. 4to. 1664. — Gift of John R. Brodhead, Esq. 

Orleans, Territory of. Acts of 1st session of the Legislative Coun- 
cil. New Orleans, 1805. 

. Acts of 2d session of the same, 1806. 

. Acts of the Legislature of the 1st and 2d sessions, 

1806-7. (The foregoing bound in one vol. 8vo.) 

Odiorne, James C. Opinions on Speculative Masonry, relative to 
. its origin, nature and tendency, 12mo. Boston, 1830. — Gift 
of Hinry Gassctt, Esq., Boston. 

Ouseley, W. G. Remarks on the Statistics and Political Institu- 
tions of the United States, &c. 8vo. London, 1832 — Gift of | 
Benjamin P. Poore, Esq., Paris. * 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 39 

Potter, Elisha R. A Brief Account of Emissions of Paper-money, 
made by the Colony of Rliode Island, 8vo. Providence, 1837. — 
Gift of S. G. Arnold, Esq. 

Paulding, J. Affairs and Men of New Amsterdam in the Time of 
Gov. Peter Stuyvesant, compiled from Dutch MS. Records of the 
period. 12mo. New York, 1843. — Gft of George Folsom, Esq. 

Price, Ebenezer. A Chronological Register of Boscawen, N. H. 
From its first settlement, in 1732, to 1820, 8vo. Concord, 1823. 
— Gift of George H. Moore. 

Pennsylvania. Memoirs of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. 
Vol. I. Pt. 2. Vols. II. III. and Pt. 1 of Vol. IV. 8vo. Phila- 
delphia, 1827-1840.— G/fi! of the Society. 

Powers, Grant. Historical Sketches of the Discovery, Settlement 
and Progress of Events in the Coos Country and its vicinity from 
1754-1785, etc. r2mo. Haverhill, (N. H.) 18^.— Gift of 
David Johnson, Esq. Newbury, Vt. 

Pennsylvania. Laws of the Commonwealth of, from 14th Oct., 
1700, to 6th April, 1802. Republished by M. Carey and J. 
Bioren, 6 vols. 8vo. Philadelphia, 1803. 

. Pamphlet Laws— 1804-5-7-8-9-10-1 1-12-13-14- 

15-16. 8 vols. 8vo. Octararo — Philadelphia — Harrisburg. 
1804-16. 

Philadelphia Society for the Promotion of National Industry. Ad- 
dresses. 5th edition, 12mo. Philadelphia, 1820. — Gift of Rev. 
John Doicdney. 

Prince, Wm. R., aided by William Prince, A Treatise on the 
Vine, embracing its history from the Earliest Ages to the Pre- 
sent Day, etc. 8vo. New York, 1830. — Gft of the Author. 

. The Pomological Manual, or a Treatise on Fruits, etc. 

8vo. 2d edition. New York, 1832. — Gift of the Author. 

Reynolds, Thomas C. Dissertatio Inauguralis, etc. 8vo. Heidel- 
berg. (Germany) 1842. — Gift of the Author. 

Rhode Island. Collections of the R. I. Historical Society. Vol. 
III. 8vo. imo.—Gift of S. G. Arnold, Esq. 

Ralegh, Sir Walter. The Discoverie of the Large, Rich and 
BewtifuU Empyre of Guiana, with a Relation of the great and 
Golden Citie of Manoa, (which the Spaniards call El Dorado) 
etc. Performed in the yeare 1595, by Sir W. Ralegh, Knight, 
etc. 4to. London, 1596. — Gift of George Folsom, Esq. 

Ranking, John. Historical Researches on the Conquest of Peru, 



40 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Mexico, Bogota, Natchez and Talomeco in tlie 13th Century, 
by the Mongols, accompanied with elephants, etc. Maps and 
Portraits, 8vo. London, 1827. — Gift of George Folsom, Esq. 

Supplement to the above, Svo. London, 1831. — Gift 



of Horace H. Moore, Esq. 

Reports of Special Assistant Poor Law Commissioners on the Em- 
ployment of Women and Children in Agriculture. Presented to 
Parliament, etc. Svo. London, 1843. — Gift of the Hon. Joseph 
Hume. 

Reese, Rev. . Funeral Oration delivered at the Capitol in 

Washington, over the body of the Hon. Jona. Cilley, with a full 
account of the Late Duel, etc. ; with Portrait, etc. Svo. New 
York, 18S8.— Gift of Dr. Marcus L. Taft. 

Rhode Island. Pamphlets relating to the Rebellion in ; See In- 
dex. — Gift of Samuel G. Arnold, Esq. 

Robertson, William. An Historical Dissertation concerning the 
knowledge which the Ancients had of India, etc. 1st American 
edition, Svo. Philadelphia, 1812. — Gift of Rev. John Dowdney. 

Sewel, William. The History of the Rise, Increase and Progress 
of the Christian People called Quakers, etc. With a Brief Me- 
moir of the Author, 2 vols. Svo. New York, 1844. — Gift of 
Messrs. Baker ^ Crane, the Publishers. 

Staples, Wm. R, Annals of the Town of Providence, from its 
First Settlement to the Organization of the City Government in 
June, 1832, Svo. Providence, 1843. — Gift of the Author. 

Stone, William L. Uncas and Miantonomoh : A Historical Dis- 
course delivered 4th July, 1842, at Norwich, Conn., at the 
Erection of a Monument to Uncas, etc. ; 12mo. New York, 
1842. — Gift of the Author. 

Stewart, James. A Practical Treatise on the Diseases of Chil- 
dren. By James Stewart, M. D., A. M. 2d edition, Svo. New 
York, 18M.— Gift of the Author. 

Sergeant, John. See Girard Will Case. 

Sanford, Lewis H. Catalogue of the Library of the New York 
Law Institute. July 1, 1842. Svo. 1843.— G^/i; of John W. 
Edmonds. 

Skinner, St. John B. L. The Battle of Plattsburgh, an Address 
delivered before the Plattsbui'gh Lyceum, Feb'y. 18, 1835. 
12mo. Plattsburg, 1835. — Gift of Hon. Wm. Swetland of 
Plattsburg. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 41 

Slade, John. Narrative of the late Proceedings and Events in 

China, 8vo. Canton, China, 1839. — Gift of Alfred Edwards, 

Esq. 
Sanderson, John. Biography of the Signers of the Declaration of 

Independence, 9 vols. 8vo. Philadelphia, 1820-7. — Gift of 

Samuel J. Beebee, Esq. 
Saggi di Naturali Esperienze Fatte nell' Academia del Cimento. 

Terza Edizione Fiorentina, Preceduta da iNotizie Storiche dell' 

Academia Stezza a Sequitata da Alcuna Aggiunte. 4to. Firenze, 

1841. — Gift of the Cavalier Vincenzo Antinori, Florence. 
Transactions of the American Philosophical Society. Vol. IX. N. 

S. Part I. 4to. Philadelphia, 1844. — Gift of the Society. 

. First Series, Vol. III. Philadelphia, 1793. 

. Vol. V. N. S. Part II, 4to. Philadelphia, 1835.— 

Gift of the Society. 
Tuomey, M. Report on the Geological and Agricultural Survey 

of the State of South Carolina, 1844. 8vo. Columbia, (S. C.) 

1844. — Gift of W. Gihmre Si?mns, Esq. 
Talma, J. Chronological Account and brief History of the Events 

of the French Revolution, from 1789 to 1795. 12mo. London. 

— Gift of Rev. John Dowdney. 
Transactions of the Apollo Association for the Promotion of the 

Fine Arts in the United States. For the year 1843. 8vo. 1843. 

—Gift of P. M. Wetmore, Esq. 
United States. State Papers and Public Documents of the United 

States. [Waite's Edition.] Vols. XI. and XII. of the Third 

Edition, 1819. 8vo. 2 vols. [These volumes complete the set.] 
. Twenty-seventh Congress, Third Session, Journal 

of the Senate, 8vo. Washington, 1842-3. 
. Same ; Senate Documents, 4 vols. 8vo. Wash- 



ington, 1842-3. 

Same; Journal of the House of Representatives, 



Svo. Washington, 1842-3. 
. Same ; Executive Documents, 8 vols. Svo. Wash- 



ington, 1842-3. 
. Same ; Reports of Committees, 4 vols. Svo. Wash- 



ington, 1842-3. 

[The above 18 volumes. Documents 27th Congress, 3d Session.] 

— Gift of the Congress of the United States. 

4* 



42 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

. The Blue Book. A Register of the Officers and 

Agents, Civil, Military and Naval, in the service of the United 

States, on the 30th of September, , 1819, , 1823, 1825, 

, 1829, 1831, 1833, 1835, 1837, , , ; pre- 
pared at the Department of State, under Resolutions of Congress, 
8 vols. 8vo. Washington, 1820-1838. 

The Blue Book for 1833. Another edition, with the addition of 
Mr. Ewing's Report on the Post Office, 1834. 12mo. Phila- 
delphia, 1834. 

Vermont. Journals of the General Assembly of the State of, Oct. 
1822. 8vo. Montpelier, 1823. 2 copies. 

. Same, Oct. 1825. 8vo. Bennington, 1825. 

. " " _ 1826. 8vo. Rutland, 1827. 

. " " 1828. 8vo. Woodstock, 1829. 

. « " 1829. 8vo. Woodstock, 1830. 

. Journal of the Senate, October Session, 1836, 8vo. 

Montpelier, 1836. 

Journal of the House of Representatives, October Ses- 



sion, 1838. 8vo. Montpelier, 1839. 
. Journal of the Senate, October Session, 1839. 8vo. 



Montpelier, 1839. 

. Same, 1840. 8vo. Montpelier, 1841. 

. « 1841. 8vo. Montpelier, 1841. 

. " 1842. 8vo. Montpelier, 1843. 

. " House of Representatives, October Session, 1842. 



8vo. Montpelier, 1842. 
. Same, Senate, October Session, 1843. 8vo. Montpe- 



lier, 1844. 
. Same, House of Representatives, October Session, 1843, 



Bvo. Montpelier, 1844. 
. Journal of the Convention, to consider Amendments to 



the Constitution of Vermont, A. D., 1843. 8vo. Montpelier, 
1843. 

Session Laws. From 1826 to 1843, inclusive, [1837 



wanting.] Pamphlets, 17 in number, 8vo. Bennington, Wood- 
stock, Middlebury, Burlington, Montpelier, 1826-43. — Gift of 
the Legislature of Vermont. 
Virginia. Historical and Philosophical Society Collections, vol. I. 
Bvo. Richmond, 1833. — Gift of George H. Moore. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 43 

Vander Donck, Adriaen. Beschryvinge van Nieuw Nederlant, 
etc. First Edition, sm. 4to. t'Aemsteldam, 1655. — Gift of 
John R. Brodhead, Esq. 

Vail, Eugene A. De la Literature et des Hommes de Lettres des 
Etats Unis d'Amerique, 8vo. Paris, 1841. — GiftofBenj. P. 
Poore, Esq., Paris. 

Updike, Wilkins. Memoirs of the Rhode Island Bar, Svo. Bos- 
ton, 1842, — Gift of E. A. Duyckinck, Esq. 

United States Congress. Catalogue of the Library of, in the Capi- 
tol of the U. S. of America. December, 1839. 8vo. Wash- 
ington, 1840. — Gift of George H. Moore. 

Welby, Adlard. A visit to North America and the English Set- 
tlements in Illinois, with a Winter Residence ut Philadelphia, 
etc., 8vo. London, 1821. — Gift of George Folsom, Esq. 

Watson, John F. Annals of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania in the 
Olden Time, &c., with Engravings, 2 vols. 8vo. Philadelphia, 
1844. — Gift of the Author. 

White, Daniel Appleton. An Address delivered before the Alum- 
ni of the Harvard University, on their Anniversary, August 27, 
1844, Svo. Cambridge, 1844. — Gift of the Author. 

Whiton, John M. Sketches of the History of New Hampshire 
from its Settlement in 1623 to 1833, etc., 12mo. Concord, 1834. 
—Gift of George H. Moore. 

Washburn, Emory. Sketches of the Judicial History of Massa- 
chusetts, from 1630 to the Revolution in 1775. Svo. Boston, 
1840. — Gift of the Author. 

Ward, George Atkinson. [See Curwen.] 

Weld, Isaac, Jr. Travels through the States of North America, 
and the Provinces of Upper and Lower Canada, during the years 
1795, 1796 and 1797, 4to. Plates. London, 1799. 

Warden, David B. Bibliotheca Americana. Catalogue for 1831, 
Svo. Paris, 1831. — Gift ofBenj. P. Poore Esq., Paris. 

Zurla, Placido. D'. Marco Polo, e degli altri Viaggiatori, Veneziani, 
piu lUustri Dissertazione,etc., 4to. 2 vols, in one. Venezia, 1818. 



44 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

MAPS AND CHARTS. 

Atlas of Battles of the American Revolution, together with Maps 
showing the Routs of the British and American Armies, Plans 
of Cities, Surveys of Harbors, &c., taken during that eventful 
period by officers attached to the Royal Army. — Gift of Bartlett 
and Welford. 

A Map of Albany County, with the Country of the Five Indian 
Nations ; by John R. Bleecker. On Parchment. — Gft of Gulian 
C. Verplanck, Esq. 

Post Office Maps, in Atlas form — embracing the latest Maps of 
all Mail Routs in the United States and Territories. — Gft of the 
Hon. C. A. Wickliffe, Post Master General. 

Map G. No. 3, of the late Disputed Territory, showing the lines of 
boundary as originally claimed by both Governments under the 
Treaty of 1783 ; as awarded by the King of the Netherlands, 
and as settled by the Treaty of Washington in 1842. — Gft of 
Major J. D. Graham. 

Military and Hydrographical Chart of the Extremity of Cape Cod, 
including the Townships of Province Town and Truro, &c., in' 
4 sheets, with a Report on the same, by Major J. D. Graham, U. 
S. Topographical Engineer. — Gft of the Author. 

Map of South Carolina, by John Wilson. Engraved by H. S. 
Tanner, Philadelphia. — Gft of W. Gilmore Simjns, Esq. 

MANUSCRIPTS. 

Original Commission and Instructions to Benedict Arnold on the 
Expedition to Ticonderoga, May 3d, 1775. — Gft of Jonathan 
Edwards, Esq. 

Deed on Parchment, with the signature of Wm. Penn, 1684. — 
Gft of Jacob Harvey, Esq. 

Bill of Exchange, 5th April 1779, with Autograph of Charles Car- 
roll of CarroUton, Signer Declaration Independence. — Gft of 
JacoT) Harvey, Esq. 

Signers to the Call of Public Meeting at New York, against the 
Annexation of Texas, April, 1844. — Gft of John Jay, Esq. 

Old Parchment MS., in several pieces, imperfect, of the time of 
Queen Elizabeth. — Gft of George Adiard, Esq. 

Two Sermons of the Rev. Thomas Allen. Pittsfield, 1794. — Gft 
of Charles E. West, Esq. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 45 

Dutch Proclamation of Thanksgiving. New Netherland, 30th 
June, 1674. — Gift of Rev. Abraham Messier, of Neio Brunswick.' 

Meteorological Observations, made at the New York Institution for 
the Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb j by O. W. Morris. — Gift 
of the Author. 

PAINTINGS. 

Portrait of Alexander Hamilton. Full length. Also, 
Portrait of Lieut. Gov. Cadwallader Golden. Full length. Paint- 
ed in 1771, by Pratt. — Depositedhy Prosper M. Wetmore, Esq., 

on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce. 
Portrait of Albert Gallatin. Painted by Wm. H. Powell, and by 

him presented to the Society. 
Portrait of John Quincy Adams. Painted by E. D. Marchant, and 

by him presented to the Society. 
Portrait, of Lewis Morris, of Morrisania, Judge of Vice Admiralty 

for New York, Connecticut and New Jersey. — Gift of William 

A. Whitehead, Esq. 
Portrait of Hon Peter Van Schaack, LL.D. — Gft of Frederic 

De Peyster, Esq. 

ENGRAVINGS. 

Portrait of Chancellor Frelinghuysen. Engraved by Sartain, from 
Peale. — Gift of Cyrus Mason, D. D. 

Engraved Portrait of James Stuart, F. R. S. Small oval print, in 
frame. — Gift of George Adlard, Esq. 

Portrait of Gov. William Pennington of New Jersey. From Peale. 
— Gift of Chancellor Frelinghuysen. 

Portrait (Lithograph) of Gov. John Endecott. — Gift of William 
Endicotl, Esq. 

Portrait of Charles, Marquis of Cornwallis. Painted by D. Gar- 
diner, Esq. Engraved by J. Jones ; published March, 1793. — 
Gift of William A. Whitehead, Esq. 

MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES. 

Three Shilling Bill, New Jersey Currency, 1776, with the signa- 
ture of John Hart, Signer Declaration Independence. — Gift of 
Prosper M. Wetmore, Esq. 



46 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

^A Feather from the dress of Montezuma, taken from it in the De- 
pot of Ancient Armor at Brussels, May 9, 1842, by John B. 
Murray. — Gift of John B. Murray, Esq. 

Impressions of Ancient Public Seals used in the City of New York. 

1. Corporation Seal, in use from 1686 to the Revolution. 

2. Seal of the City Common Council, struck immediately after 

the Revolution. 

3. Seal of the Corporation of Trinity Church, 1697, still in use. 

4. Mayor's Seal, New York City, 1701. 

5. " " '' '< 1795. 

6. Territorial Seal of Gov. Dongan. — Gftof John Paulding, Esq. 
The Pedigree of General George Washington, the Father of his 

Country. — Gift of the Ainerican College of Heraldry. 
Colonial, Provincial and Continental Money, of various ante-revo- 
lutionary dates. — Gift of Mrs. D. L. JDix, Boston. 

MR. NORMAN'S DONATION. 

No. I. Female Head found Among Ancient Ruins in the State of 
Tamaulipas. Long. W. Greenwich, 98 deg. 31 min, Lat. N. 
22deg. 09 min, (By a home-made Quadrant.) 
No. II. Flat Image, found in the Tamissee River, in the same State, 
among traces of Ruins ; distance about 3 leagues from the town 
of St. Anna. 
No. III. 1. — Household God, supposed to be that of Child Bearing. 
2. — Household God, supposed to be that of Child Delivery. 
From facts I will have the honor to present to the 
Society at some future meeting. 
No. IV. 1. — Water or Medicine Vases. 

2. — Water or Medicine Vases, found three leagues South of 

the town of Panuco, Tamaulipas, on a site of an an- 

cient town known among the Indians of the present day 

as Cerro, Chaucaco, 

No. V. Found in the Topild Mountains, Tamaulipas, W. S. W. 

from Tampico, distance 6 leagues. 
No. VI. Fragments of Idols found among the mounds near the 

of Panuco. 
No. VII. Household Utensils. 

No. VIII. Found among the Ruins, used at the present day by the 
Indians to spin cotton. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 47 

No. IX. Cup and Obsidian pieces, found among the Ruins of North 

Mexico, in large quantities. 
No. X. Idol, found near Panuco, 

In exploring and excavating, I found many pieces of fine and 
strangely sculptured wrok. Heads, Sphinxes, Turtles, animals, etc., 
descriptions and drawings of which I shall have the honor of pre- 
senting to the Society. 

B. M. NORMAN. 

DONATIONS RECEIVED THROUGH MONS. VATTEMARE. 

Description des Nouveaux Jardins de la France, et de ses anciens 

Chateaux. Par Alexandre de Laborde. Les Dessins Par Ct. 

Bourgeois. Folio, Paris, 1808. — Gift of Count Leon Laborde. 
Chartes Latines, Francaises et en Langue Romane Meridionale 

Publiees pour 1' Ecole Royale des Chartes, etc. 4e. and 5e. 

Fascicule. Folio. . Paris, 1841. — Gft of M. Cliampollion 

Figeac. 
Chartes et Manuscrites sur Papyrus de la Bibliotheque Royale, etc. 

Par M. Champollion Figeac. Folio. Paris, 1840. — Gft of the 

Author. 
Annales de Lagides. In sheets. — Gift of the Author. 
13 Brochues Concernant les Antiquitcs Egyptiennes, etc. etc. 

Par Champollion le Jeune. 
13 Brochues Concernant les Antiquitcs Egyptiennes, etc. etc. 

Par Champollion Figeac. 
Keepsake de Histoire Naturelle. Description des Mammiferes. 

Introduction. Par M. Charles D'Orbigny. 8vo. Paris. — G?ft 

of the Author. 
De Principes du Gouvernement Representatif et [de leur Applica- 
tion. Par P. D. de Hauranne. 8vo. Paris, 1838. — Gft of 

the Author. 
Des Compagnie d'Assurances pour le Remplacement Militaire et 

des Remplacants. Par M. Rey. 8vo. Paris, 1839. — Gft of 

the Author. 
Ecriture Demotique Egyptienne. Lettre de Mr. Champollion Fi- 
geac a Mr. Ch. Lenormant (7 Fevrier, 1843.) Lithograph. 

Gft of the Author. 
Recherches sur la Magie Egyptienne. Par Leon de Laborde. 4to. 

Paris, 1841. — Gift of the Author. 



48 PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

Universite Royale de France. Concours General des Colleges de 

Paris et de Versailles. 16 Aout, 1843. Discones, etc. — Gift of 

the Author. 
Documents Inedits — relatifs a Jean, Sire de Joinville, etc. Par 

M. Champollion de Figeac. — Gift of the Author. 
Rapport au Roi sur L' Instruction Secondaire. Par le Ministere 

de L' Instruction Publique. 4to. Paris, 1843. — Gft of the 

Author. 
Rapport a Monsieur Le Ministre de L' Interieur sur differents Ho- 

pitaux, Hospices, Etablissements et Societies de Bienfaisance de 

L' Italic. 4to. Paris, 1840. 
Rapport sur le Trace du Chemin de Fer de Paris A Chalons- 

sur-Saone. Par M. L. Comte Daru. 4to. Paris, 1843. — 

Gft of the Author. 
CEuvres Completes de Madame la Princesse Constance de Salm. 

4 vols. 8vo. Paris, 1842.— Gft of the Author. 
Mes Soixante Ans on Mes Souvenirs Politiques et Litteraires. Par 

Madame Princesse Constance de Salm. 8vo. Paris, 1833. — 

Gft of the Author. 
Histoire de la Captivite de Francois I"- Par M. Rey. Svo. 

Paris, 1837. — Gift of the Author. 
Quelques Souvenirs de Courses en Suisse, et dans le Pays de Ba- 
den, etc. Par J. A. C. Buchon. Svo. Paris, 1836.— G?/i! o/" 

the Author. 
Tableau de L' Etat Actuel et des Progres Probables des Chemins 

de Fer de L' Allemagne etdu Continent Europeen. Par Le Bon 

Paul de Bourgoing. Svo. Paris, 1842. — G?fi of the Author. 
Des Chemins de Fer et de I'application de la loi [^du 11 Juin, 1842. 

Par M. Le Comte Daru. Svo. Paris, 1843. — Gift of the 

Author. 
Genie du dix Neuvieme Siecle, etc. Par Edouard Alletz. Svo. 

Paris, 1842— 1843.— Gz/it of the Author. 
Notice Historiques et Litteraire sur Charles Due d'Orleans, 

etc. Par M. Aime Champollion Figeac. Svo. Paris, 1842. 

Gift of the Author. 
Articles Extraits de la Revue Francaise. Par M. Duvergier de 

Hauranne. — Gift of the Author. 
Debuts de L' Imprimerie a Strasbourg, etc. Par Leon Laborde. 

Svo. Paris, 1840. — Gift of the Author. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 49 

Le Theatre des Grecs — a 1' Usage des Colleges, etc. Par Etienne 

Gallois. 12mo. ?aiis, 1840.— Gift of the Author. 
De La Politique Exterieuie et Interieure de la France. Par M. 

Duvergier de Hauranne. 8vo. Paris, 1841. — Gift of the 

Author. 
Esquisses Poetiques de la Vie. Par Edouard Alletz. 12mo. 

Paris, 1841. — Gift of the Author. 
Maximes Politiques a I'Usage de la Democratic Nouvelle. Par 

Edouard Alletz. 12mo. Penis, 184:0.— G ft of the AutJwr. 
Pensees. Par Madame la Princesse Constance De Salm. Trois- 

ieme edition. 8vo. Paris, 1836. — Gift of tJie Author. 
Vingt Quatre Heures d'une Femme Sensible, etc. Par Madame 

La Princesse Constance de Salm. Ti'oisieme Edition. 8vo. 

Paris, 1836. — Gift of the Author. 
Le Due de Guise a Naples, on Memoires sur Les Revolutions de 

ce Royaume en 1647 et 1648. Par le Comte A, De Pastoret. 

8vo. Paris, 182b.— Gift of the Auth&r. 
La Verite sur la Question D' Orient et sur M. Thiers. Par le Cte. 

D'Angeville, etc. 8vo. Paris, 1841. — Gift of the Author. 
Virgilius Nauticus, Examen des Passages de L' Eneide qui ont 

traite de la Marine. Par M. Jal. 8vo. Paris, 1843. — Gifl of 

the Author. 
Lettres, Politique, Religieuses et Historiques. Par Cauchois Le- 

maire. 2 Tom. 8vo. Paris, 1828— 32. — G ft of the Author. 
Histoire Financiere de la France, depuis 1' origine de la Monar- 

chie jusqu 'a la Annee, 1828, etc. 8vo. 2 Tom. Paris, 1840. 

Gift of the Author. 
Tableau de 1' Histoire Gcnerale de l']Europe depuis 1814 jusqu 'en 

1830. Par Edouard Alletz. 3 Tom. 8vo. Paris, 1836.— 

Gift of the Author. 
Essai sur I'Homme on Accord de la Philosophic et de la Religion; 

Par Edouard Alletz. 2 Tom. 8vo. Paris, 1839.— Gift of the 

Author. 
Esquisses de la Souffrance Morale. Par Edouard Alletz. 2 Tom- 

8vo. Paris, 1839. Gift of the Author. 
Histoire du Drapeau, des Couleurs et des Insignes de la Monarchic 

Frangaise, etc. Par M. Rey, Avec 24 Planches. 8vo. 2 Tom. 

et Planches. Paris, 1837. — Gift of the Author. 
Histoire de la Legislation. Par M. Le Comte de Pastoret, etc. II 



50 PROCEEDINGS, ETC. 

Tom. 8vo. Paris, 1817-27.— Gift of the Marquis de Pastorei, ' 

son of the Author. 
Recherches sur les Voyages et Decouvertes des Navigateurs Nor- 

mands en Afrique dans les Indes Orientales et en Amerique, etc. 

Par L. Estancelin. 8vo. Paris, 1832. — Gft of the Author. 
Various Pamphlets. — Gft of A. Vuttemare. 
Bronze Medal. — To " C. E. I. P. de Pastoret, Francise Cancella- 

rius." « Nulli impar Fortunte— MDCCCCXXX."— G//l! of the 

Marquis de Pastoret. 
Engraved Portrait of M. de Pastoret, Chancellor of France. — Gift 

of his son, Marquis de Pastoret. 
Nouvelles Recherches sur la Ville Gauloise d' Uxellodunum, 

etc. Par M. Champollion Figeac. 4to. Paris, 1820. Gift of 

the Author. 
Articles Extraits de la Revue Francaise. Voyages en Abyssinie. 

Par Leon De Laborde. 8vo. Paris, 1838. — Gft of the Author. 
Le Puits Artesien de Grenelle. Par M. Rey. Bvo. Paris, 1843. 

Gift of the Author. 
Notice sur les Manuscripts Autographs de Pierre de Lestoille, et 

sur ceux du Cardinal de Retz. Par Aime Champollion Fils. 

12mo. Paris, imi .—Gift of the Author. 
Essai sur les Bibliotheques Administratives. Par Leon Vidal. 

8vo. Paris, 1843. — Gift of the Author. 
Notice sur les Manuscrits Autographes de Champollion le Jeune. 

Par M. Champollion Figeac. 8vo. Paris, 1842. — Gift of the 

Author. 
Des Fonds Publiques Frangais et Etrangers et des Operations de 

la Bourse de Paris, etc. Par Jacques Bresson. 12mo. Paris, 

1843. Gift of the Author. 
Tableau Synoptique de Regne Vegetal. Par M. Ch. D'Oi'bigny. 

Gift of the Author. 
Carte Geognostique du Plateau Tertiaire Parisien. Par V"- Rau- 

lin. 1843. — Gift of the Author. 
Engraving after Albert Durer. Head of Christ. By Comte Leon 

La Borde. — Gift of the Artist. 
Leisure Hours. By W. S. Browning. 8vo. London, 1841. — 

Gift of the Author. 



APPENDIX. 



ANNUAL MEETING, THE SECOND OF JANUARY. 

THE PRESIDENT IN THE CHAIR. 



The officers of last year were unanimously re-elected, 
The Annual Reports were read and severally ordered to 
be published for the use of members. 

Rev. Dr. De Witt, read the following paper : 

NEW NETHERLAND. 

As we view a wide and deep river bearing in its course, 
on its surface, the sails and freights of commerce, and con- 
tributing to the wealth and prosperity of a country, we 
love to trace it to its source, however small and obscure, 
and to mark the tributary streams which combine to swell 
and enlarge its current. While observing the many con- 
fluent streams, our special interest is attracted to the first 
rising rill and the stream by which it is fed. Thus as we 
observe the growth of an extended, powerful and populous 
nation, we are led to trace the train of events, and the in- 
fluences which were exerted by them : and, as we ascend 
higher and higher to its origin, the spirit of enquiry becomes 
deeply enlisted. If, on investigation of the earliest period, 
materials for history be found scarce and difficult of ac- 
cess, they become proportionalh'^ prized and sought for, as 
the Sybilline leaves were valued according to the diminu- 
tion of their numbers. Every portion of our Union, espe- 
cially the Atlantic States, furnishes an attractive field for 



52 APPENDIX. 

the investigation and pen of the historian ; but the 
Empire State rises first in importance. This importance 
arises not so much from its comparative rank in population, 
resources and influence, nor from the more peculiar interest 
attached to its annals, as from the fact that less has pro- 
bably been done in the way of investigation, and more re- 
mains to be accomplished. The history of New York, in 
the true spirit, and well digested M'ith fulness and accuracy, 
remains to be written. 

It is a subject of pleasing congratulation, that the labors 
of the Historical Agent, appointed by the State of New York, 
at the earnest solicitation of this Society, have been crown- 
ed. with success, in obtaining a large amount of materials 
from the public archives at the Hague, London and Paris ; 
and the result promises to be satisfactory to those who 
have regarded the agency with high expectation. The his- 
torical collections already made by this Society, and the ac- 
tive measures now employed for their increase, will furnish 
an addition to the public documents in the State Oifice at 
Albany, and those recently collected in Europe ; and the 
whole, when placed in the hands of one gifted with patient 
investigation, accurate discrimination and classical taste, 
will result in a standard work worthy of its subject. 

The Colonial history of New York, when New Nether- 
land was under the jurisdiction of Holland, must be mainly 
derived from the documents now in the office of the Secre- 
tary of State at Albany, and those obtained from the Colo- 
nial Department at the Hague, which will be deposited 
there. The volume just published of the new series of our 
historical collections, incorporates (it is believed) nearly all 
that can now be collected from other sources relating to the 
discovery, settlement, condition, &c., of New Netherland, 
in addition to what was already before the public. Lam- 
brechtsen, of Middleburgh, who published his history of 
New Netherland in 1818, (a translation of which is found 
in this volume of Historical Collections) doubtless took 
pains to refer to the accessible sources of information, es- 
pecially libraries ; although there are pamphlets which he 



APPENDIX. 53f 

failed to procure, that have come to our hands. On exam- 
ining a number of historical works in Dutch, in relation to 
Holland, both of earlier and later date, and of a civil and 
ecclesiastical character, I observe an almost total omission 
of reference to the colony of New Netherland ; and the 
few references that are found, are brief and vague. The 
Dutch manuscripts of that period, and of later date, in this 
country, and which, perhaps, were long preserved in the 
family descent, have disappeared. Owing to the disuse of 
the Dutch language, and the branching out of families, 
these manuscripts were lost, or, through ignorance of their 
value, were treated as waste paper. A case occurred some 
time since, when inquiry was made whether the papers of a 
leading individual under the Colonial Government in the 
latter part of the seventeenth century, could not still be 
found among his descendants. On being directed to the 
branch of the family, in whose hands the papers, if in exis- 
tence, probably were, information was received, that some 
years before, a trunk filled Mith papers, principally in the 
Dutch language, was in their possession, but being viewed 
as destitute of value, they were treated as waste paper, 
and destroyed. The journals and correspondence of indi- 
viduals are valuable, in shedding light upon the moral and 
political influences connected with the events of their 
times. 

The annals of New Netherland comprise but a brief 
space of time ; and the infancy and peculiar circumstances 
of the colony, joined with the want of copious materials, 
preclude the variety of incidents and fulness of illustration 
which subsequent portions of our colonial history possess. 
Still, a peculiar interest is attached to these annals, as be- 
longing to our birth and infancy as a colony — and marking 
influences, which continued their operation after the sur- 
render of the colony to the British, and which have not 
spent themselves at the present time. The Dutch settlers 
of New Netherland became citizens of New York, who 
gained only a small accession by occasional emigrants from 
Holland. The Huguenot and German Palatine emigrants, 
5* 



54 APPENDIX. 

in the latter part of the seventeenth and the begmning of 
the eighteenth centuries, were greatly assimilated to the 
Dutch residents, by their common religious faith and the 
sympathy derived from former associations. These com- 
bined, furnished, during the whole of our colonial history, 
a large share, if not the preponderating, of the numbers 
and influence of the inhabitants. The little rivulet appears, 
after a season, to be lost in the deep, wide and swelling 
current which confluent streams have caused ; but an accu- 
rate test ascertains that the taste and tinge which the rivu- 
let first imparted, are still preserved. 

The surrender of New Netherland to Great Britain took 
place in 1664, fifty-five years after the discovery of the 
river called by its discoverer's name, fifty-one from the 
building of a temporary fort on the river occupied by a 
number of soldiers and traders, and forty from the first per- 
manent settlement for agricultural purposes. The voyage 
of discovery by Hudson was under the auspices and direc- 
tion of the Dutch East India Company, formed in 1602, 
with the view of discovering the long vainly-sought North- 
west passage to India. At this time, a wide field for com- 
mercial enterprise and profitable trade had opened in the 
colonial possessions they had obtained in the East Indies, 
soon spreading in Ceylon, the Malabar coast, and the 
islands of the Archipelago. This field was the great point 
of attraction and national interest, and contributed to that 
commercial eminence and naval prowess by which Hol- 
land was distinguished in the seventeenth century. In 
consequence, the newly-discovered regions in America 
were, in a great measure, neglected and left to private 
enterprise. Single ships visited them in 1610 and the fol- 
lowing years. In 1614, an association was formed, called 
the Amsterdam West India Licensed Trading Company, 
invested with exclusive privileges of trade for four years, 
and instructed to maintain their acquisitions on the Hud- 
son, and explore the adjacent country. In the same year, 
this Company sent out two ships under the command of 
Christiaense and Block, who explored Long Island Sound, 



APPENDIX. 55 

touched at Cape Cod, and penetrated Narragansett Bay 
and Connecticut River. Forts were built on Manhattan 
Island and on Castle Island, near what is now Albany. 
Nothing more than trading posts were kept up for a num- 
ber of years, and no attempt for permanent colonization 
was made till after the organization of the Dutch West 
India Company in 1G21, endowed with peculiar privileges 
and powers. Immediate measures were taken for this ob- 
ject. The fort on the Battery, called Fort Amsterdam, was 
built in 1623 and 1624. About the same time, the first 
agricultural settlers came over. Meyer, a Dutch author in 
my possession, in his ^^ Annals of Holland States, 1624," says, 
" A number of families went out this year to New Nether- 
land," now New York. Constant and accredited tradition 
asserts that the first white child born in New Netherland 
was Sarah Rapalje, at the Wallabout, in 1625. The in- 
crease of these agricultural settlers was, for a number of 
years, quite slow. In 1629, the famous charter of liberties 
and privileges was granted by the college of 19 of the 
West India Company, for encouraging emigration under the 
direction of Patroons. The only colonie permanently settled 
under this charter, (although others were attempted,) was 
Rensselaerwyck, under Patroon Killian Van Rensselaer, a 
gentleman of wealth and distinction at Amsterdam, and 
one of the original directors of the West India Company. 
He immediately took measures for obtaining a tract of land 
according to the privileges of the charter, and, after suc- 
cessive purchases, completed the tract twenty-four miles 
from north to south, and forty-eight from east to west. 
Some colonists came out immediately after the first pur- 
chase, and subsequently the Patroon himself came out after 
the purchase was completed in 1637. The number of the 
colonists increased continually. 

The rights and government of Rensselaerwyck were of a 
peculiar nature, and partook somewhat of the feudal insti- 
tutions of the middle ages. The Patroon acknowledged 
the Director General at New Amsterdam and the States 
General as his superiors ; but he maintained a high mill- 



56 APPENDIX. 

tary and judicial authority within his territory. He had 
his own fortresses supplied with men and ammunition, and 
his flag waving over them. The courts of the colonic were 
his own courts, where all questions were cognizable, sub- 
ject to appeal in some of the most important cases. Justice 
was administered in his own name, and the colonists were 
his immediate subjects, and took the oath of fealty and 
allegiance to him. This created an imperium in imperio, 
and was, at times, the source of difficulty and embarrass- 
ment between the authorities at Rensselaerv^T^ck and New 
Amsterdam, during the short period of the Dutch Govern- 
ment. 

I have alluded to the circumstances connected with the 
first settlement of New Netherland, to show the influences 
under which the emigration from Holland took place. Un- 
like the first settlers of New England, the early Dutch 
emigrants did not seek a refuge from civil or ecclesiastical 
oppression. Holland was, of all the powers of Europe, the 
most in advance of the spirit of the age, in the liberal prin- 
ciples of her Constitution and in the administration of it. 
The struggle of the Netherlands with Spanish and Papal 
power in the sixteenth century, was a protracted one of 
intense severity, furnishing an exhibition rarely paralleled 
of heroic energy and devotion, of patient suffering and 
martyrdom, and of perseverance crowning with success the 
eftbrts of the few and the feeble against the many and the 
mighty. The famous League, or Union of Utrecht, was 
formed in 1578, in which the seven northern provinces of 
the Netherlands united for mutual and common interest 
and defence, and was the precursor of their deliverance 
and establishment as a nation. It was formed when the 
spirit of liberty, fanned by the fires of raging persecution, 
breathed fervently. The first coin stamped at that time, 
bore the impression of a ship struggling amid the waves 
without oars or sails, with the motto, " Incertiim quo fata 
ferant" and the national motto on her coat of arms was, 
" Eendragt maakt magt " — Unity creates strength. This 
League, or Union, contained the fundamental principles 



APPENDIX. 57 

which developed themselves in the government of Holland 
by the States General. It was, in its federal character, a 
type of our own federal government, and its principles 
soon developed themselves in the excellent practical effects 
which they produced. At the time of the settlement of 
New Netherland, Holland had given a quiet asylum to 
the Jews despised and oppressed by all the other nations of 
Europe. The persecuted of the Reformed faith throughout 
Europe, without distinction, found a welcome and delight- 
ful resting place within her bosom. The fostering spirit of 
her institutions operated on the naturally phlegmatic tem- 
perament of her inhabitants, and aroused them to active 
enterprise and persevering exertion, and led the way to 
the high eminence she attained during that century in 
commercial prosperity, naval distinction and literary cul- 
ture. Had the States General, early after the discovery by 
Hudson, directed their attention to this western field, and 
directly extended their strong fostering influence in plant- 
ing and nurturing a well-chosen colony, bearing the germ 
of the institutions of the fatherland — and had the valor, 
wisdom and patriotism of a Stuyvesant superintended it 
when the first forming influences were favorable, a basis 
would have been laid securing probably a long and pros- 
perous continuance. The first settlement was under the 
care of a commercial company, whose primary object was 
gain ; and the efforts of the Patroon of Rensselaerwyck to 
procure liege tenants for his domain, were much less favor- 
able to stamp the character and secure the welfare of the 
infant colony. 

An element of difficulty early arose, and caused con- 
siderable embarrassment and excitement during the exist- 
ence of New Netherland, arising from the question as to 
the right of territorial jurisdiction. It was the accredited 
principle among the nations of Europe, that actual disco- 
very, followed by occupation, gave a right to territorial 
jurisdiction. The Dutch claimed their right as extending 
from South, or Delaware River, to Narragansett Bay, or at 
least Versche, or Connecticut River, founded on the discovery 



58 APPENDIX. 

of Delaware Bay and River by Hudson, the discovery and 
exploration of Long Island Sound, Narragansett Bay, and 
Connecticut River, by Block and Christiaense, and the voy- 
ages of Mey and De Vries up the Delaware River, and 
the erection of forts near its shore. The fairness and equity 
of this claim, and the untenable ground of the opposing 
claim of England, are well stated by Lambrechtsen. Seve- 
ral British writers admit the fairness of the Dutch claim, 
and it is believed there is now a concurring sentiment in 
its favor. 

The history of the Pilgrim settlers to the east of New 
Netherland is familiar to us, and is embalmed in our 
aftectionate remembrance and high respect. Fleeing from 
civil and ecclesiastical oppression in their own country, 
they found a quiet abode when they went to seek a home 
in the new world. The story that the Pilgrims were be- 
guiled by the hired treachery of a Dutch pilot leading theni 
from the place designed in the vicinity of New Amsterdam 
to the bleak shores of New Plymouth, has long been con- 
sidered as apocryphal. In a Dutch work I met with, enti- 
tled, "Chro7iyken Van Ley den," &c., I find a reference to 
the Independent congregation of Robinson, and the depar- 
ture of a large part of his charge for America. The author 
says that they declined to settle in the possessions of the 
States General, and preferred an independent settlement by 
themselves. When Isaac De Razier visited New Plymouth 
in 1627, bearing the congratulations of the authorities at 
New Amsterdam, he suggested that they should remove 
from their comparatively barren locality to the fine lands 
on the Connecticut River, in their territory. This the Pil- 
grims declined, and intimated whether it would not be well 
for the Dutch to ascertain the validity of their own claim. 
Collision arose on the first attempt to settle on Connecticut 
River, and a series of remonstrance and correspondence 
took place between the authorities at New Amsterdam and 
those at Hartford and New Haven. In the progress, diffi- 
culties and complaints connected with matters of trade, 
sprang up. Similar difficulties arose on the southern border 



APPENDIX. 50 

of New Netherland, from the settlement of the Swedes on 
the Delaware, and the claims of the adjacent colony of 
Maryland. This vexed question continued to be an agita- 
ting one, until it ripened and ended in the subjugation of 
the colony by the British. 

The administration of the government of the colony of 
New Netherland was vested in the Director General and 
Council. New Amsterdam and some towns enjoyed an 
elective franchise in the choice of their municipal officers 
to some extent, as in the cities and towns of Holland. But 
the popular element of representation did not enter into the 
General Government. The executive and legislative pow- 
ers combined were lodged in the Director General and 
Council, who were nominated by the West India Company, 
and appointed by the States General. The judicial power 
was, in many cases, directly exercised by them, and in 
others, by appeal. Very seldom can such combined powers 
be safely lodged in the hands of individuals, however quali- 
fied for the trust ; and the best administration of that trust 
is exposed to jealousy and misrepresentation, owing to the 
strong and jealous sentiment that prizes and watches the 
rights and liberties of the subject. It is evident that much 
depended upon the character and efficiency of the Director 
General, in all that respected the welfare and prosperity of 
the colony. 

Of the first Director General, Peter Minuit, little more is 
knoMH than his name and office, as no official documents 
or records of his administration were preserved here. He 
was afterward found with the colony of the Swedes, who 
planted themselves, perhaps at his instance, on the Dela- 
ware. His administration probably lasted from 1624 to 
1633. 

Wouter Van TwiJler succeeded him. He was originally 
a clerk in the office of the West India Company, and went 
out in 1630, as the agent of Patroon Van Rensselaer, to 
purchase a tract of land for a colonie, under the charter of 
liberties. He continued in office from 1633 to 1638. He 
was afterward in the employment of the Patroon at Rensse- 



60 APPENDIX. 

iaerwyck, as a commercial agent. During his administra- 
tion, there was a slow increase of agricultural settlers ; 
but the dilapidated state, or decaying condition of the pub- 
lic buildings, as well as the general state of things, as 
certified by a public document, show that it must have been 
inefficient. The incidental allusions of De Vries, in his 
journal, combined with the fact just stated, leads to the 
conclusion, that, though he may have been skilled in cast- 
ing accounts and conducting a mere trading interest, he 
had not the practical wisdom and efficiency to superintend 
the interests of a rising colony. 

William Kieft succeeded him in 1638, and continued 
until 1647. The details of his administration that have 
reached us, certainly testify to his zeal and activity, but 
discover a want of that discretion and right spirit with 
which he should have carried out his measures. His cor- 
respondence with the authorities at Hartford and New 
Haven displays shrewdness and ability, but, at the same 
time, is tinctured with an acrimony not fitted to open a 
ready avenue for remonstrance and argument. While he 
believed that the "words of the Avise are as goads," he 
forgot that they are better steeped in oil than in vinegar, 
and that "a soft answer turneth away wrath." The 
period of Gov. Kieft's administration was distinguished 
from all other portions of the Dutch colonial history, for 
Indian troubles and warfare. The conversations of De 
Vries with Kieft, stated in his journal, show his rash zeal 
in employing strong retaliatory measures against the In- 
dians, while the current of affairs in relation to Indian mat- 
ters, shows that his energy was not directed in that pacific 
spirit which might have prevented some, and healed others 
of these troubles. The consequence was, that, when the 
Indians were brought to terms, a state of irritated feeling 
remained, ready, under slight influences, to break out 
afresh. In the correspondence of the Church of New Am- 
sterdam with the Classis of Amsterdam, there is a reference 
to the disaffection with Gov. Kieft in the latter part of his 
administration, arising partly from disaffection with his 



APPENDIX. 61 

administration, and partly from personal collision with 
individuals. Still, the credit of vigilance and energy can- 
not be withheld from his administration, though that energy 
was frequently not wisely directed. It is probable that the 
epithet applied to him by Diedrich Knickerbocker is not 
misplaced — " the testy. ^^ Everardus Bogardus, the first min- 
ister at New Amsterdam, on account of ecclesiastical diffi- 
culties in which he was placed, went to Holland in the 
same vessel with Gov. Kieft, in 1647, to meet the Classis 
of Amsterdam, in the hope of returning. The vessel was 
lost at sea, when all perished. 

The successor of Kieft was Peter Stuyvesant, who entered 
on the duties of his office, May 27, 1647. His predecessors 
had been selected, probably all, by the West India Company, 
on account of their connection and acquaintance with trade 
more than on account of the higher qualifications of a 
statesman. Gov. Stuyvesant was of a highly respectable 
family at Amsterdam, and was allied by marriage to a 
distinguished Huguenot family of that place. He early 
entered into the service of the States General ; continued, 
it is said, both in the military and naval services at different 
times, and sustained a high character for valor and useful- 
ness. He lost in battle a leg, and he is sometimes referred 
to with his silver leg. Having done good service, he was in- 
vested with some important trusts previous to his being desig- 
nated to the government of New Netherland, among which 
w^as the government of Curacoa and the Dutch dependencies 
in the neighborhood. He came here with a well-earned 
reputation, and in the maturity of his years, being upward of 
fifty. His administration may well be considered, in view 
of all the circumstances attending it, an able and success- 
ful one, though it closed in the surrender of the colony to 
the British. When he arrived, the Indian tribes were in 
that state of irritated feeling adverted to ; the vexed ques- 
tion of jurisdiction had multiplied causes of complaint 
and dissension, and increased peril and opposing influences 
on the eastern and southern borders ; there were elements 
of evil in the colony itself, wh ich needed to be carefully 
6 



62 APPENDIX. 

watched and influenced ; and he was suffered, by the parent 
government, to remain without suitable cooperation and 
supply. The more the lights remaining to exhibit his ad- 
ministration are consulted with care, will be the conviction 
of the capacity, wisdom and efficiency which characterized 
it in the times and circumstances which existed. The time 
when Stuyvesant entered on the government of New Neth- 
erland was an eventful one in the political state of Europe. 
It was during the civil wars of England, and near the exe- 
cution of Charles I. His administration extended through 
the protectorate of Cromwell, and four years after the res- 
toration of the Stuart dynasty. During this period, Holland 
reached the acme of her naval glory and commercial 
eminence and wealth. It was then that her Van Tromp 
proudly sailed along the coast of England, with a broom at 
the mast-head, as a sign of her sweeping the seas. But, in 
the midst of all this prosperity, the States General almost 
wholly occupied themselves Mdth conducting their conflicts 
with neighboring powers, and guarding, and cherishing 
their East India possessions, w^hich had already opened 
wide channels for the influx of wealth into her bosom, and 
stimulated the commercial enterprise and energy in that 
direction. The field in this Western world, which time has 
so strikingly developed in its value and importance, was com- 
paratively greatly neglected, and very little protection or 
aid was directly yielded by the States General. The super- 
vision and direction was almost wholly left in the hands of 
the West India Company ; and thus more room was furnish- 
ed for commercial jealousies, which proved one element in 
embarrassing the administration of Gov. Stuyvesant. In 
the state of things in the colony adverted to. Gov. S. needed 
much wisdom to reconcile and compose jarring elements, 
and to conduct successfully the interests of the province in 
its foreign and domestic relations. He unfortunately was 
intrusted with an unrestricted power, devolving upon him a 
large measure of responsibility, and at the same time a 
stronger incentive and freer scope for the indulgence oi 
jealousy and discontent on the part of the people. He was 



APPENDIX. 63 

thrown upon feeble resources in troublous times, and nothing 
but wisdom and energy could have availed in rendering 
them effectual for the course he pursued. Without follow- 
ing the train of incidents and measures during the adminis- 
tration of Gov. S., I propose only to advert to a few points, 
in order to vindicate the observation above made, that " in 
view of all the circumstances attending his administration, 
it was an able and successful one, though it closed with the 
surrender of the colony to the British. 

1. The policy of Gov. Stuyvesant's administration to- 
wards THE Indian tribes, was decidedly and successfully 
pacific It is to the credit of the first settlers and the Colo- 
nial Dutch Government, that the course adopted from the 
first was of this character. At the very first occupation of the 
colony, friendly alliances were entered into with the Indian 
tribes, and the territory was uniformly purchased from them 
by treaty. Instructions to this effect were sent by the West 
India Company. Rensselaerwyck sustained a most impor- 
tant and delicate position in relation to the Northern and 
Western Indians ; the influence uniformly exerted by it, 
was beneficent and pacific. During the administration of 
Gov. Kieft, serious troubles arose both with the Indians of 
Long Island and New Jersey : some battles were fought, 
and the pacifications entered into were not founded on true 
confidence and amity. At the time of the commencement 
of Gov. Stuyvesant's administration, there was a feverish 
and unfriendly spirit existing among them, connected with 
the remembrance of former excitements, and by no means 
soothed by the course of Gov. Kieft, A little spark could 
have blown it into a flame. On entering upon his office, he at 
once took prompt and well-devised measures to secure their 
interest and conciliate their friendship. In 1647, just after 
entering on the government, he prohibited the selling of 
strong drink to the Indians, under the heavy penalty of five 
hundred guilders, and the ^^ further responsibility for all the 
misdemeanors v)hich fiow therefrom" Surely there was saga- 
city in enacting such a rule, marking the crime with such a 
penalty ; for strong drink has ever been the bane which 



64 



APPENDIX. 



white men have introduced among the Indians, to corrupt, 
deceive and oppress them. He also enacted that justice 
should be done to the Aborigines ; that their lands should 
not be taken from them without payment ; and that the in- 
habitants should pay them a fair price for any work they 
should do for them. Doubtless this beneficial and pacific 
policy was pursued toward them during the whole of his 
official course. In a letter from Gov. Stuyvesant to the 
Classis of Amsterdam, dated Sept. 7, 1650, he writes,"/ 
have adopted, from, the first, measures to protect their rights, 
and conciliate their good will. TVe have lived in peace with 
them, and everything seems to indicate their feelings of friend- 
ship and confidence toward us. It would be a source of plea- 
sure to me, if the light of Christianity could he introduced 
among them by any means your reverend body may suggest, 
and loe be able to aid in carrying out." 

A fearful disaster occurred toward the close of his ad- 
ministration, in 1603, caused by Indian hostility. The Eso- 
pus Indians, (belonging to the Minisink tribe,) in the vicinity 
of what is now Kingston, at a time when they professed 
friendly relations, unexpectedly surprised the village of 
Esopus under a pretence of barter, killed more than twenty, 
and wounded and took captive more than fifty, desolating 
that infant settlement. The affecting details of this horrid 
massacre are given by the Rev. Hermanns Bloin, minister 
of the place, who was an eye-witness of the melancholy 
scene, in a letter to the Classis of Amsterdam, dated Sep- 
tember, 1663, which is now in my possession. Immediately 
after the receipt of the intelligence. Gov. Stuyvesant resorted 
thither with a military reinforcement under the command of 
Capt. Martin Cregier. The Governor commanded the 
operations for some time in person ; and so wisely were his 
plans laid, and so efficiently were they conducted, that in a 
short time, the captured were recovered, the fastnesses and 
retreats of the Indians invaded and overcome, and in De- 
cember a pacification was entered into. The result displayed 
valor and mercjr in their just combination. This reference 
to Indian matters recals to my mind an incident which met 



APPENDIX. 65 

my eye in looking over the correspondence with the Classis 
of Amsterdam by the Church at New Amsterdam, which I 
' am tempted to introduce here, though not exactly in keeping 
with the train of remarks. The Rev. John Megapolensis 
was pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church at New Amster- 
dam from 1648 to 16G4, and some years subsequently. He 
M^as previously settled at Rensselaerwyck from 1642 to 
1648. While settled there, he came much in contact with the 
neighboring Indians, and gained their friendship and confi- 
dence. He published an essay on the Mohawk Indians, a 
translation of which is found in Hazard's State papers. 
Some French Jesuit priests came into the midst of the Six 
Indian Nations, and excited their suspicion and aversion. 
They were seized, tortured^ and, in one case, partially muti- 
lated. This coming to the knowledge of Dominie Megapo- 
lensis, he visited the Indians ; interceded with them ; ob- 
tained the liberation of the priests on condition of their 
going to Europe, or their return to Canada, on the pledge 
of their remaining there ; took them to his own house, and 
ministered to their comforts and necessities, until they had 
fully convalesced. Some years afterward, a French Jesuit 
priest named Simon Le Moine, came from Canada and 
visited New Amsterdam, where he called upon and was 
hospitably entertained by Dominie Megapolensis, whose 
kindness, in the benefits he had formerly conferred upon his 
brethren, he gratefully acknowledged. On his return to 
Canada, he addressed a letter to Dominie Megapolensis, 
soliciting a correspondence for the discussion of points af- 
fecting the essential distinctions between Popery and the 
pure Protestant faith. Such an epistolary discussion took 
place in the Latin Language, and a part of the correspond- 
ence is preserved. 

2. The administration of Governor Stuyvesant was pat- 
riotic AND ABLE, IN CONDUCTING WHAT MAY BE TERMED THE 

Foreign Relations of the Colony. This mainly had respect 
to the absorbing and agitating question of territorial limits 
and jurisdiction. When he assumed his post, this question 
had drawn around it matters of grievance arising from 
6* 



66 APPENDIX. 

trade and other sources, .as subjects of mutual complaint. 
The claim of Holland to the stipulated limits, bore pre- 
sumptive evidence of its strength and fairness, on principles 
recognized by the Nations. Gov. Stuyvesant was the ser- 
vant of the States General, bound by his solemn oath as 
vv^ell as his sense of duty to vindicate the rights and honor 
of his country. How sensitive is the pulse of national 
feeling on this very point of territorial occupation and juris- 
diction. But recently, as one people, we were alive to the 
question lately and happily adjusted, of the North-East 
Boundary ; and the same feeling is becoming, in a degree 
elicited in relation to our Western border on the Pacific. 
His negotiations and measures bore solely upon the recogni- 
tion and vindication of the right of jurisdiction by the father- 
land ; while his desire was, in case of such recognition, to 
extend a liberal policy to all who should settle within the 
bounds. Space is not allowed me for even a minute bird's- 
eye view of the nature and course of the negotiations and 
correspondence with the New England authorities. A con- 
siderable amount of the correspondence is found in the first 
volume of the old series of our Historical Collections. A 
careful perusal of it will leave the clear conviction of the 
ability with which the subject is treated, and the proper 
spirit blending courtesy and dignity which characterise the 
correspondence of Gov. S. One whose opinion almost 
weighs with conclusive force, observes (Chancellor Kent,) in 
his address before this Society, in 1828, " The Governors of 
New Netherland, in their long and sharp contests with the 
New England Colonies, showed themselves in no way infe- 
ferior to the most sagacious of the Puritans, either in talent, 
doctrine, or manner. Strength and arrogance of deportment 
were evidently on the side of the English. Governor Stuy- 
vesant manifested his desire for peace, and showed the mag- 
nanimity of his character in going in proper person, in 1650, 
to meet and negotiate with the Commissioners of the New 
England Colonies. Though standing alone in the midst of 
a body of keen and well-instructed opponents, he conducted 
himself with admirable address and firmness. The corres- 



APPENDIX. 67 

pondence between him and the Commissioners is embodied 
and preserved in the Collections of the Society, and it does 
credit to his memory." These remarks of Chancellor Kent 
will be responded to by every candid reader. 

In the year 1653, New England was greatly agitated by 
the Indian wars of that period in the midst of it. A general 
rumor was spread, gaining popular belief, that the Dutch 
had instigated the Indians to their hostile course ; and Gov. 
Stuyvesant was particularly criminated. The letter of 
Stuyvesant, in our Collection, dated that year, in which he 
meets and repels the charge, is a noble document, breathing 
a spirit of ardent but chastened indignation in meeting the 
charge, which he calmly and successfully repels, and then 
throws himself upon the " mens sibi conseia recti quce menda- 
cia ridet." He was accused of harboring, the previous win- 
ter, Ninegret a Narraganset Chief, an enemy of the English, 
and had exerted influence through him. He states that 
Ninegret came to him with an introductory letter from Gov. 
Winthrop, having in view the cure of a disease with which' 
he was afflicted ; and that in these circumstances he had 
only showed to him the office of Christian hospitality. Inves- 
tigation showed how utterly unfounded were these charges. 
In the hostile attack Gov. S. made on the Swedish forces 
on the Delaware, it will be remembered that it was not till 
after the capture, by the Swedes, in 1654, of the Fort Casi- 
mir, built by the Dutch in 1651. He then felt himself called 
upon, by imperative duty to his country, to assert her rights 
and vindicate her honor ; and proceeded in person to recover 
Fort Casimir, and capture Fort Christina in its neighborhood. 
The measures he adopted appeared to be demanded for the 
preservation of the settlement he planted there. 

He continued, amid the varying phases of political occur- 
rences in Europe, and the influences operating around and 
within the Colony, to extend a watchful eye, and to exert 
his usual activity and energy in vindicating the rights of the 
Netherlands. While he foresaw the results which combin- 
ing influences and events tended to produce, and expressed 
his apprehensions in his correspondence with the Nether- 



68 APPENDIX. 

lands Government, he remained faithful to his trust, and 
sought to avert the crisis which occurred in 1664. The 
history of the expedition of Richard Nicolls, and the events 
connected with the capitulation, are pretty fully detailed in 
our published histories. Gov. Stuyvesant appears as the 
faithful guardian of his country's rights in the post commit- 
ted to him, until necessity being laid upon him by the power 
of opposing forces, the inadequacy of the means of defence 
intrusted to him, and the strongly expressed sentiment of the 
citizens, he signed the Articles of Capitulation, in which 
were secured the most honorable and important advan- 
tages to the Dutch inhabitants who became subjects of the 
British Government. I have in my possession a letter from 
the Rev. Samuel Drisius, one of the ministers of the Dutch 
Reformed Church here, dated September 15, 1664, giving 
an account of the circumstances connected with the sur- 
render, which is somewhat curious, and of which I shall 
hereafter furnish a translation. Merit is not safely tested 
by success. At times a combination of circumstances brings 
in a tide of prosperity, little, if at all, connected with saga- 
city, energy or perseverance. At other times, while the 
number and strength of adverse influences overcome every 
effort to resist them, there is in the midst of defeat the 
clearest exhibition of the most valuable traits of character, 
and the most satisfactory proof of wisdom, integrity and 
efficiency. 

While Gov. Stuyvesant insisted on his country's claim to 
territorial jurisdiction, his policy toward settlers from 
other nations was uniformly kind and liberal. In the Dutch 
manuscripts, the towns, in what is now Queens county 
and Graves-end, are termed the English towns in the Dutch 
colony. At the time of the first Puritan settlements in 
Queens county, peculiar privileges were extended to them 
for their encouragement, and they continued to receive the 
fostering aid of the Dutch Governor, notwithstanding the 
strong manifestation of their natural sympathy with the 
New England authorities. In the correspondence of the 
Ministers of the Reformed Dutch Church at New Amster- 



APPENDIX. 69 

dam with the Classis of Amsterdam, I find in several 
instances, reference to these English towns, and their reli- 
gious condition. The kindest allusion is made to the Puri- 
tan ministers of the churches there. The towns of Middel- 
burg, (now Newtown) and Hempstead are represented in 
one of the letters as destitute of the ministry by reason of 
the death and removal of their former ministers, and as be- 
ing straitened for an adequate support for the ministry and 
schools. The Classis is solicited for well qualified congre- 
gational and Presbyterian ministers, and to induce the West 
India Company to adopt measures similar to those emploj-ed 
in the Dutch towns for raising money to be appropriated 
solely to the support of their ministers and schools. This 
request was approved by Gov. Stuyvesant. After the pro- 
visional arrangement of boundaries between New Nether- 
land and New England, by Gov. Stuyvesant and the New 
England Commissioners, in 1650, a number of Puritans 
from the East settled a place then named Oost-Dorp, (East 
Town,) now Westchester, in Westchester county. There 
was an apprehension that the settlement, like other instances 
which had occurred, might be connected with the claim 
of jurisdiction, and in this view he remonstrated against 
it, with the assurance that if the Dutch jurisdictions were 
acknowledged, full protection and encouragement w'ould 
be extended. The same spirit of kindness toward this 
settlement is expressed in the ecclesiastical correspondence. 
There was a considerable number of English residents at 
New Amsterdam at quite an early period. In 1654, the 
church at New Amsterdam petitioned the Classis of Am- 
sterdam to procure for them a second minister, as colleague 
with Dominie Megapolensis, who should be acquainted with 
the English language, that he might occasionally preach in 
English, for the benefit of the English inhabitants there. 
In consequence, the Classis in 1655, selected the Rev. Samuel 
Drisius, who had been settled in London as a minister of a 
Dutch Reformed Church there. In 1655 and 1656, a con- 
siderable number of French Vaudois or Waldenses, suffer- 
ing under persecution, came to New Netherland, of whom 



70 APPENDIX. 

some settled on Staten Island and some in New Amster- 
dam, of which the records of the chm'ch bear testimony. 
Dominie Drisius being well acquainted with the French 
language, preached for their benefit, also occasionally, 
visiting Staten Island. 

The Rev. John Megapolensis, before alluded to, sent his 
son Samuel to Harvard College, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 
in 1657, where he spent three years in the course of his 
education, when he was sent to Leyden University, in Hol- 
land, where, in 1662, he was licensed for the ministry, and 
obtained the degree of Doctor of Medicine, after pursuing 
a course of medical studies. On his return, he became a 
collegiate pastor of the church at New Amsterdam, and 
was appointed by Gov. Stuyvesant one of the Commission- 
ers to negotiate with the British Commissioners in relation 
to the capitulation of the province. These references are 
made to show the feelings entertained by Gov. Stuyvesant 
and the Dutch colonists in relation to the English. 

3. The administration of Gov. Stuyvesant was faith- 
fully DEVOTED TO THE PROMOTION OF PUBLIC MORALS, AND THE 
ADVANCEMENT OF THE INTERNAL PROSPERITY OF THE PROVINCE. 

In a letter of the minister of the Church to the Classis of 
Amsterdam, dated November, 1649, he says — " The state of 
morals in our place has been at a low ebb. Numerous 
vessels from the West Indies, Virginia, &c., sailing along 
our coast, put in here, and have given rise to too great a 
number of taverns, which have exerted a bad influence 
upon the inhabitants. In consequence, intemperance and 
Sabbath-breaking have prevailed. Our Director General 
has employed his influence to abate and remove these evils 
by the laws he has enacted, and the efforts he has employ-ed. 
The good effects are already seen around us." In the pub- 
lic records at Albany, we find laws early enacted for regu- 
lating taverns, in connection with the Lord's day, discourag- 
ing demoralizing sports, &c. His attention was early 
directed to proper plans for building up the city so as to 
secure a degree of beauty, order and safety. He also di- 
rected the establishment of a good police. There is evi- 



APPENDIX. 71 

dence, that, during his administration, an encouraging and 
valuable, if not rapid growth, took place in the different 
towns of New Netherland, notwithstanding the lack of 
direct and efficient aid yielded by the States General, and 
the adverse influences which operated. The colonists who 
came over with Gov. Stuyvesant, and subsequently, were of 
the most respectable character for industry, morality and 
general standing ; and a considerable impetus was given to 
the agricultural settlements. 

Gov. Stuyvesant appears to have attached great value 
and importance to the means of education. In a letter to the 
Classis of Amsterdam, 1649, he says — " We stand in need, 
at present, of a pious, well-qualified and diligent school- 
master. Nothing is of greater importance than the right 
early instruction of the youth. * Qui nihil agendo male agere 
discit.' I trust that your reverend body will allow no delay 
in selecting a well-qualified person to be sent out by the 
Company." It has been observed, to the merited praise of 
the Puritans, that they carried with them, wherever they 
went, the church and the schoolhouse. The emigrants 
from Holland were not undeserving of a similar praise. Pro- 
vision is made in the charter of the West India Company, 
and in the charter of liberties and privileges to the Patroons, 
that ministers and schoolmasters should be sent out to the 
first settlers. The schoolmasters were selected for their 
fitness to teach, and their character as pious members of 
the church ; and they officiated as readers and choristers 
in the churches. In the infancy of settlements, where the 
inhabitants were few, and where there was no minister, it 
was their office to lead worship on the Sabbath, by offering 
prayer and reading a sermon. The late excellent Patroon 
Stephen Van Rensselaer, showed to me a clause in one of 
the earliest leases granted by his ancestor, the first Patroon, 
Kilian Van Rensselaer, requiring him, with other tenants 
in that vicinity, to assemble on the Sabbath for prayer and 
reading of a sermon. Care was taken to provide ministers 
in the early period of the settlement. 

It has been supposed and stated that days of annual 



72 APPENDIX. 

thanksgiving, or fasting, were introduced by, and were, in 
a great measure, peculiar to the Puritans of New England. 
We, how^ever, find them in observance in the colony of 
New Netherland. A proclamation by Gov. Kieft, as 
early as 1643, is preserved. I have found, in the records 
of the Dutch Churches here, copies of Gov. Stuyvesant's 
proclamations for three different years, 1660, 1662, 1663. 
They are excellent papers of the kind, and are richly im- 
bued with Christian sentiments and a Christian spirit. The 
year 1663 was distinguished by the terrible massacre at 
Esopus, and the conflict with the Indians which followed, 
and also by a great mortality through the prevalence of 
small-pox. The Governor issued a proclamation referring 
to these events, and directing a day of humiliation and 
prayer in July. These calamities remaining, the first Wed- 
nesday in every month was recommended to be observed 
for the same purpose until December, when a pacification 
was entered into with the Indians, and the small-pox was 
arrested. A day of thanksgiving was then observed on 
the first Wednesday in January, to close the train of month- 
ly religious exercises connected with these events. 

The charge of religious bigotry and persecution has been * 
made against the administration of Governor Stuyvesant, 
on account of the strong measures employed to prevent the 
organization of a Lutheran congregation and the exercise 
of separate worship, and also on account of the persecution 
of the Quakers. The charge must to a certain extent be 
admitted, and can only be palliated, and not justified. The 
prevalent views, and spirit of the age had not reoognized 
the free exercise of worship in connection with the rights 
of conscience. The light which Roger Williams had struck 
out on this subject, was not yet diffused or accredited. 
Gov. Stuyvesant felt an obligation of conscience arising 
from his official oath, in which he promised to protect the 
interest of the Reformed Church, to give it prominence, and 
to oppose the organization of a Lutheran Church. The Re- 
formed Church at New Amsterdam also opposed it, express- 
ing their fears, that in the infancy of the settlement it would 



APPENDIX. 73 

greatly weaken the Church formed, and on the whole be 
prejudicial to the interests of religion ; and suggesting that 
they might enjoy religious privileges and ordinances in the 
Reformed Church, without finding their consciences aggriev- 
ed. I have in my hand some correspondence of the Church of 
New Amsterdam, with the Classis of Amsterdam, which 
throws light upon the measures employed in relation to 
Lutheran worship, and in some degree explaining the in- 
fluences and circumstances connected with them, and soft- 
ening the features apparent on the face of the enactments 
of the Governor General, and council. In the course of 
correspondence, more correct principles of religious liberty, 
and freedom of worship were brought out ; and the West 
India Company advised to a liberal and tolerant policy. 
The following extract from a letter of that Company, to 
Gov. Stuyvesant, 1663, furnishes a well expressed state- 
ment of the principle of religious liberty, now so well 
accredited and prevalent, but at that time little understood, 
or practised. " In the youth of your existence you ought 
rather to encourage than to check the population of the 
colony. The consciences of men ought to be free, and un- 
shackled, so long as they continue moderate, peaceable, 
unoffensive, and not hostile to the government. Such have 
been the maxims of prudence, and toleration, by which the 
magistrates of this city (Amsterdam) have been governed ; 
and the consequences have been that the oppressed, and 
persecuted from every country, have found among us an 
asylum from distress. Follow in the same steps, and you 
will be blessed." At the time the Quakers visited New 
Netherland, shortly after their first rise in England, many 
of them at least, did not possess that quiet, peaceable, and 
well disciplined character which they afterwards mani- 
fested, and by which they have gained the respect of the 
community among whom they have resided. At that time, 
there was with many of them a high-wrought spirit of 
enthusiasm, which in its occasional ebullitions, was bitter 
in its reproaches, and led to the invasion of the public 
worship of the churches. At the time of their appearance 
7 



74 APPENDIX. 

in New Netherlands, they had just been expelled from New 
England, where measures of a far severer character than 
those subsequently employed here, had been enacted and 
enforced. A few fleeing from New England, came to New 
Amsterdam, and a number landed from a vessel direct from 
England. The first appearance was that of three or four 
in the streets of New Amsterdam, uttering loud denun- 
ciations, and so conducting themselves as in the opinion of 
the magistrates to disturb the public peace. This, in con- 
nection with the strong measures employed by the New 
England authorities against them, raised a cloud of preju- 
dice around them, which the course of some of them was 
not calculated to dispel. Strong prejudice always requires 
the best directed influences to overcome it. That excellent, 
devoted, self-denying, and useful body of Christians, the 
Moravians, labored for a time extensively during the last 
century under prejudices, which, after a season, they lived 
down, gaining the cordial and high esteem of the whole 
Christian community. 

Gov. Stuyvesant was a member of the Reformed Church, 
and at times a ruling elder. He was sincerely and firmly 
attached to her doctrines and order, and the testimony 
surviving bears evidence of the consistency of his Christian 
profession. His public documents have occasionally a vein 
of piety running through them. It is well known that he 
purchased and occupied a farm in the vicinity of Fort 
Amsterdam, called afterwards the Governor's Bouwerie, 
(or farm,) whence the name of one of our principal streets 
is derived. He built a small house of worship on his land, 
on the very spot w^here St. Marks Church now stands, at 
his expense, in order to accommodate his neighbors and 
domestics. In 1660 the Rev. Henry Selyns was called from 
Holland, and took charge of the Church in Brooklyn, and 
the Church on the Governor's Bouwerie. The Governor 
personally pledged one half of his support. Dom. Selyns 
writes to the Classis of Amsterdam that the Governor w^as 
solicitous for the welfare of the negroes on his farm and in 
his neighborhood. He states that at the earnest request of 



APPENDIX. 75 

the Governor he had particularly labored for the instruc- 
tion and benefit of the negroes ; that while among the 
adults but little good was effected on account of their long- 
formed habits, he met with considerable success among the 
young in promoting the cultivation of their minds, while 
some gave evidence of piety. This circumstance does 
credit to the enlightened liberality, and Christian benevo- 
lence of Gov. Stuyvesant. After the surrender he became 
a quiet and respected citizen under the new government. 
It is related that when John Adams, the first Ambassador 
from the United States to Great Britain, after the peace in 
1783, was introduced to George the Third, the king said: 
"I was the last to consent to your Independence, and I 
shall be the last interfere with it," So Gov. Stuyvesant 
might have said, that he was the last to consent to the 
surrender, and would be the last to interfere with the suc- 
cessful operations of the new government. He paid, after 
his retirement to private life, a visit to his Fatherland, and 
then returned to sjDend the remainder of his days in the 
bosom of his family, fulfilling his duties as a citizen, the 
head of his household, and a member and officer of the 
Church. 

After his retirement from public life, and the possession 
of greater leisure, he probably devoted more time in actively 
promoting the interests of the Church, as I find his name 
more prominently occurring as a ruling elder. He died at 
the good old age of eighty, in 1 672. On tracing his admin- 
istration, we find proofs of his unremitted activity and 
energy. Whether in council or war, he was in every 
critical instance himself directing. Two or three times he 
visited New England, to negotiate with the choicest spirits 
of the provinces, and at the post of danger, he appeared in 
person at Esopus, and on the Delaware. His presiding 
genius was equally felt in the internal affairs of the colony. 
Left by the parent state with feeble resources, pressed from 
within and from without with great dangers, he success- 
fully excited a controlling influence which secured order, 
and gro\\i;h, till irresistible influences brought an end to 



76 APPENDIX. 

the Dutch rule over the colony. We beUeve that, in the 
light of history that has survived, after the severest test, to 
mark the faults, of his administration, there is enough re- 
maining to warrant the recognition of him as a brave and 
chivalric soldier, a courteous gentleman, a discreet states- 
man, and a humble Christian. The portrait of Gov. Stuy- 
vesant that has been handed down, exhibits features of the 
noblest mould, well fitting such a character. 



There is a reference in this paper to the correspondence 
of the Reformed Dutch Church here, and the Classis of 
Amsterdam. These churches were originally founded and 
continued under the care and direction of that Classis. 
After the transfer of the Dutch Colony, they still remained 
in connection, and correspondence with the Classis of Am- 
sterdam, until 1771. When recently the General Synod of 
the Reformed Dutch Church here suggested the prepara- 
tion of a History of the Church in America, J. R. Brod- 
head, Esq., was requested to inquire as to the materials 
remaining in the Archives of the Classis of Amsterdam. 
He found a considerable amount of documents received 
from Ministers, Churches, &c. in America, and also the 
correspondence of the Classis carefully preserved, copied 
into volumes. The original letters and documents were 
forwarded for the use of the General Synod, to be returned 
at the end of four years. Among these are a number of 
letters during the Dutch Colonial Government, reaching 
from 1649 to 1664, 



APPENDIX. 77 



MEETING OF THE SIXTH OF FEBRUARY. 



THE PRESIDENT IN THE CHAIR. 

Mr. Henry R. Schoolcraft read the following paper : — 

Comments, Philological and Historical, on the Aboriginal 
Names and Geographical Terminology, of the State of 
New York. Part First : Valley of the Hudson. In a 
Report from the Committee on Indian names, &c. 

§ Ancient Indian Stocks of North America, east of the 
Mississippi river. — From Tradition. 

In speaking of the Ancient Tribes, who inhabited the 
borders of the Atlantic, Philologists have found a manifest 
want of terms of an appropriate-generic character, and yet 
sufficiently distinctive, to denote the original races, or 
mother-stocks, who have peopled the country. Tradition 
has preserved but a few names, of this character, relative 
to the great unknown period of their early chronology. 
Our absolute knowledge of the entire race, does not pene- 
trate farther back than 1492 ; and it was a century later, 
before the Atlantic coasts of North America began to be 
settled. At this era, the native population was divided into 
an almost infinite number of tribes, each of whom claimed 
some of the characteristics of nationality, but none of whom 
had preserved any exact and clear traditions of their origin, 
history or affiliation. 

The course of the migration of barbaric tribes, on this 
continent, appears to have resembled that, which history 
denotes to have prevailed on the Asiatic continent, and 



78 APPENDIX. 

during the early epochs of Europe. One type or race of 
adventurous or predatory tribes, succeeded another, and 
held possession for a time, till it was pushed away, or over- 
thrown by a stronger or fiercer tribe. Of these successive 
developments of a wandering people, in North America, 
theory and conjecture, have left us an ample field for their 
exercise, but nearly all that we can say, with historic truth, 
of the early state of our aborigines, is, that the last bands, 
in point of time, were numerically greater or stronger, than 
their predecessors in the forest, since they conquered them, 
and kept possesion of the country. When the continent 
itself was first occupied, where the impulse of population 
began its movement, and how it proceeded, in the career of 
conquest and the division of nations and languages, we 
cannot pretend, with any certainty, to say. The first 
voyagers and discoverers, found all the coast inhabited, but 
not densely occupied. The people, seen at various places, 
resembled each other very much, in looks, color, habits and 
manners. They were nomades and hunters, roved vast 
tracts, with bow and arrow, claimed to be independent of 
each other, and spoke diverse languages. The number of 
the tribes and nations, appeared to be very great. 

It was evident, however, as soon as enquiry began to be 
properly directed to the subject, that, while the territory of 
North America was overspread with a multiplicity of tribes 
and bands, each bearing a separate name, and claiming 
separate sovereignty, there were but a few generic stocks. 
And that the diversity noticed by Europeans, and insisted 
on by the aborigines themselves, had arisen, chiefly, from 
the progress and development of languages, among rude 
and unlettered tribes. Distinct from this diversity of lan- 
guage, they might have all been called one people. 

When we dismiss this era of the colonization of our coast, 
and push back the inquiry on the simple strength of abori- 
ginal tradition, concerning the generic stocks, and the an- 
cient state of things among them, it is remarkable how 
little we have, which is at all entitled to attention. Even 
the Aztecs, who had attained a state of semi-civilization. 



APPENDIX. 70 

in the valley of Mexico, and had a system of pictorial in- 
scription superior to the northern tribes, are not able to 
trace their history beyond the year of our Lord, 1000. 
And much of the certainty of this computation arises from 
the observation of an eclipse during the reign of one of 
their emperors, which has enabled astronomers, to verify 
the period. 

But the tribes situated north of the Gulf of Mexico, as a 
general limit, and east of the Mississippi, while they also 
used, to some extent, a jiictorial and symbolic method of 
expressing ideas on strips of bark and other substances, had, 
actually, no signs whatever to mark their chronology, and 
hardly a trace of astronomical knowledge, beyond the 
counting of the phases of the moon, and the noting of the 
summer and winter solstices. The latter constituted the 
completion of their year, and was the term found to be in 
universal use, for computing age. They had no history, no 
chronology, no astronomy, no arts, no letters — nothing, in 
fine, by which they could connect themselves with the other 
races of the human family in Europe, Asia, or Africa. 
With the exception of the Aztec picture writings, there 
was not even a tradition of such connexion. Most of the 
tribes north of the latitude of the Gulf of Mexico, believed 
themselves to have come out of the ground, by an almighty 
fiat, which they concealed under various allegories ; and to 
have no foreign, or derivative origin. 

Where there is so much thick darkness, it is gratifying to 
find even a little light breaking it. In contemplating their 
traditions, we find two or three names of races, which we 
may regard as occupying- the foreground of our Indian his- 
tory. Tradition asserts, that at an ancient period, there 
was a powerful nation living in the southern spurs of the 
great mountain range, which still bears their name, who 
were called, by early writers, Appalachites. They spread 
over the vallies and rivers having their issue in the Mexi- 
can Gulf, where some of their descendants have remained, 
under various names, constituting the Indians of the Flori- 
dian type, and others migrated south into the circle of the 



80 APPENDIX. 

Carribean islands.* The northern extension of the Appa- 
lachian chain, brings to notice another of the early abori- 
ginal races, of the anti-colonial period, in the popular name 
of Alleghany. This name is derived, according to the re- 
spectable authority of Colonel Gibson, who was well versed 
in the Indian languages, from Talligues or Talligewy, an 
ancient people who inhabited the banks of the Alleghany 
river, and the northern spurs of the Alleghany mountains. 
The name of this nation, he thinks, should be written 
Allegewi. 

Indian tradition, which is recorded in the transactions of 
the American Philosophical Society, asserts that the Alle- 
gewi had crossed the Mississippi, in their migration, east- 
ward, and reached and spread themselves in the vallies of 
these mountains. In the progress of the occupancy of this 
part of the continent, they were followed by two other 
stocks, of diverse language, who, however, formed an alli- 
ance for their overthrow and expulsion. One of these allied 
tribes, is known to modern writers, under the name of Min- 
GOES, but more generally under the French sobriquet of 
Iroquois, — a term founded on an exclamation which these 
warlike people employed, in their responses to public 
speeches. In the progress of their eventful history, they 
called themselves, some half a century before the settlement 
of New York,-|- AcaumusHioNEE or United Tribes, but are 
better known, in our historical annals, at first as the Five, 
and afterwards, the Six Nations. The other tribe of the 
ancient alliance to overthrow the Allegewi, philologists 
have agreed to call by the name of Algonquins, or Algics. 
The particular type of them who entered into this alliance 
on the Ohio, denominated themselves Lenno Lenapees, a 
term meaning according to various interpreters, either the 
Common People, or the People who are men. In the course 
of a long and sanguinary warfare maintained by these tM'o 
nations o.gainst the Allegewi, the latter were finally defeated 



* The History of the Cariby Islands &.c. — Jolin Davies, London, 16C6. 
t Pyrlases. 



APPENDIX. 81 

and expelled from the country, retreating down the valley 
of the Ohio, since which period, they have not re-appeared. 
Such are the Aboriginal accounts as derived from the 
Lenapees. 

The Iroquois and Algonquin races spread themselves, 
north-eastwardly along the Atlantic coasts, and up the St. 
Lawrence Valley into the Great Lakes. Virginia, the 
Carolinas, and Maryland were first colonized, while tribes 
of each of these generic stocks, still occupied the Allegha- 
nies and its vallies. Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New 
York, were settled under similar circumstances, of Indian 
occupancy, with this characteristic difference, which ap- 
plied, however to some extent south, that the Iroquois tribes, 
occupied the sources of the great streams, and interior 
grounds, while nations of the Algic or Algonquin type, were 
planted at the mouths of the rivers and along the Atlantic 
coasts. It has been noticed in the world's history, that 
ichtheophagi are of less muscular strength and energy, than 
nations who subsist on flesh. The result in our coast tribes, 
not only affirms this observation, but another remarkable 
consequence, grew out of this general geographical position. 
The Iroquois race by occupying the summit lands and sources 
of the great navigable rivers of the continent east and 
north-east of the Alleghanies, placed themselves on vantage 
ground, and by drawing, as it were, a cordon around the 
back of the Indian towns from North Carolina to Western 
New York, by the way of the Alleghany and the Ohio, the 
St. Lawrence and the Lakes, subdued the Atlantic Algon- 
quins and placed them either in a state of political surveil- 
liance or of actual tribute. This general result had 
happened, when the colonies began to be planted about 
A. D. 1600; and had the influx into North America, of the 
Saxon and Celtic races, been delayed, a century longer, the 
world would have, probably seen, in the Acquinushionee, 
another example of semi-civilization, equal in acquirements, 
and far superior in efficiency, to the Mexican empire, under 
the Montezumas. 



82 appendix. 

§ Closer view of the dispersion of the Generic tribes ; 
FROM History : effects of change on Language. 

We can but glance at events, as we come into the historic 
period. In the year 1610, Lord de la Warre, in a passage 
to Virginia, touched at the Capes of the Delaware, and the 
Indian name of the river, which was not euphonious, was 
changed out of compliment to this nobleman, to Delaware. 
The Lenno Lenapees, who then inhabited its banks, also in 
time, dropped their vernacular term and took the name of 
Delawares, which has been continued to the present time. 
Penn adopted it, in his subsequent treaties wdth them, on 
the settlement of Pennsylvania, and popular usage has now 
sanctioned it, for two centuries. 

The Lenapees, consisted originally, as they affirm, of 
three tribes, the Unami, or Turtle, the Mississa or Turkey, 
and the Minci, or Wolf. The two former, must have been 
early blended, as they are not known, in their separate ex- 
istence, under our history. The Minci, or Moncees, as they 
are more generally called, occupied the eastern parts of New 
Jersey from the sea coast, to the west banks of the Hudson, 
and up the same, keeping its west bank as high as the 
Wallkill. The Nanticokes of Maryland and Virginia, 
united their broken fortunes with the Delawares, and ascend- 
ed the Delaware river with them, and thus intermingled with 
the Monceys. It is in this manner, that the Indian popula- 
tion of the sources of the Delaware became very mixed in 
its character, and led at various times and places, in the 
settlement of that part of our State, to the application of 
several distinct terms, to a people, who had, in reality strong 
affinities of blood, and spoke dialects of the same parent 
language. As an instance, those of them, who dwelt at a 
large island in the Delaware, were called Minnisinks, or 
Islanders, a term purely geographical, and affording no 
indication of distinctive nationality. By the intercommu- 
nication which exists between the head-waters of the 
Delaware, and the banks of the Hudson, through the Wall- 
kill, this mixed population, spread from river to river, taking 



APPENDIX. 89 

distinctive local names from the spots where they resided. 
It is in this manner, that the original area of the counties of 
Orange and Ulster, became the locality of numerous bands, 
who had, however no well founded claim to be considered 
as independent tribes, or even sub-tribes. In one quarter, 
this population crossed the Hudson to its eastern banks, and 
spread among, or lived in villages, intercalated with the 
Mohegans. This was the character of portions of the In- 
dian population of the ancient area of Dutchess county. 

Let us now return to the Atlantic coast. We have seen 
that this coast, from Virginia to the Gulf of the St. Law- 
rence, was occupied by tribes of the Great Algonquin race. 
How the population of this important stock diffused itself, 
and assumed peculiarities, as it spread from south to north, 
along the sea coast, reaching to Massachusetts and Maine, 
and Nova Scotia, we do not know ; but we perceive in the 
languages, and in the general manners, customs and tradi- 
tions of the tribes, at the respective eras of settlement, 
indubitable proofs of the ancient connection and ethnolo- 
gical affiliation of all these tribes. Whether the Powhat- 
tanic type of the Algic, had preceded or mixed with the 
Lenapee, in its course northward and eastward, producing 
the sub-types of the Mohegan, Narragansett, Metoac and 
others, must be mere conjecture ; but there are strong 
analogies of sound, as well as proofs of syllabical intermix- 
ture, in the examination of the language, to favor the 
conjecture. As a general principle in the sounds of the 
language we may remark, that the open vowel sounds 
became less characteristic of w^ords, as the tribes advanced 
northwardly and diffused themselves over the seaboard of 
New York and New England. This influence of change 
and deterioration w^as felt, and is to be perceived, at this day, 
in the geographical names of the north, in the the loss of 
the liquid / of the Lenapees and of the sonorous asperate in 
r of the Powhattans. The sound of the letter r ceases, in 
the Indian words of the coast, in the progress northeast, 
after passing the Chesapeake, and is supplied by au. That 
of the letter /, ceases after passing the capes of the Dela- 



84 APPENDIX. 

ware, and does not quite reach, in any instance, the west 
banks of the Hudson. This letter is the test of the true 
extent of Lenapee or Delaware proper. Other interchanges 
of the consonants occur, in this transfusion of the Algic 
race northward. They may be remarked, in a striking 
manner, by the changes of the local inflection, in geographi- 
cal names from o, oc, and ong, to uk, and ett, which are 
very common after reaching to, and beyond the Hudson. 
The whole of the sea coast tribes were semi-ichtheophagi, 
and the deteriorating influence of habit upon language, is 
plainly discernible, when we compare the vocabularies of 
these sea coast tribes, with those of cognate tribes in the 
west and northwest, and midland districts of the conti- 
nent, who subsist on flesh and pursue invigorating em- 
ployments of the chace. 

On reaching the harbor and expanded bay of New York, 
we first find in the Indian names, the territory of the 
MoHEGANs. When the Dutch in 1609 entered the river, 
which now bears the name of Hudson, its left, or eastern 
banks, were found to be inhabited by this stock. They 
were broken up, into a great many bands, and local chief- 
taincies, or sachemdoms, each of which bore a separate 
name, like our townships, and each claiming independent 
power, but all being sufficiently identified by their parent 
language. Those who occupied the island of New^ York 
or Manhattan, together with Staten Island, and the smaller 
group, called themselves Monatons or Manhattans, a term 
which it will be perceived was merely geographical. On 
the colonization of the country, these Manhattanese or 
Monatons were found to be but one of the numerous family 
of Mohegans. 

§. Importance of a just philological Classification of 

THE tribes, and THE CONNECTED aUESTION OF ORIGINAL PRE- 
CEDENCY AMONG THEM. 

There is still another preliminary remark, which the com- 
mittee have to offer, before preceding to the consideration 



APPENDIX. 85 

of particular names. The term Algonquin was introduced 
by the early missionary writers on the American languages, 
on the first discovery and settlement of the country. By it 
they comprehended a very large family of tribes, who, 
although distinguished by dialectic differences, and living 
at widely remote points, united in the general scheme of 
utterance, which is peculiar to these tribes. The sounds 
of this language are soft, its vocabulary comparatively full, 
and its forms of combination very rich and expressive. It 
has been deemed, so to say, the court language of the 
Tribes. The term itself is a matter of little consequence, 
any more than as furthering the purposes of precision in 
generalization, and might be readily exchanged for any 
other term equally euphonous, were it proposed. Nothing 
of the kind w^as offered to philologists previous to the 
year 1818, when the late Mr. Du Ponceau, a man eminent 
in philology, in presenting some letters on the Delaware 
language, to the American Philosophical Society, from the 
Rev. John Heckewelder, called the use of the term in ques- 
tion, and suggested, as a generic, the word Lenapee. This 
was done, on the theory of justice to this tribe, who affirm 
themselves to be the oldest member of the family ; and not 
from any other objection to the prevailing generic. The 
Lenapees certainly have claims to tribal priority, among 
this race, within a circle, after we have, in the propagation 
of the race northeastwardly, crossed the Susquehanna and 
the Chesapeake ; but before this claim can be admitted to 
include all who are comprehended b}- the term Algonquin, 
or its adjunct Algic, we should know what the PoMdiattans 
would have had to say on this head. Where a question so 
general is mooted, we should also be pleased to hear what 
the old Apalachfans {or Appalachites,) or the still existing 
Iroquois, might have had to urge, by way of corrobo- 
ration, or denial ! The numerous family of the Algics 
of New England, certainly looked to the southwest, as 
the place of their origin, but they had no traditions 
which linked them with the Lenno Lenapees. They 
were rather affiliated, it would seem, with the Meloacs 
8 



86 APPENDIX. 

of Long Island,* and with the Mohegans of the banks 
of the Hudson. f By the traditions of the Yendots or 
Wyandots, who are of the lineage of the Iroquois, the 
North American Indians had a unity of orfgin, and the 
AVyandots were, originall}^, placed at the head of the tribes. 
In this traditionary account, they merge the distinctions of 
language, as if it were something of an accidental charac- 
ter. They regard the Lenapees, as an uncle's children, 
and call them nephews. J 

Few persons have written, at large, on the principles of 
the Indian languages, and the reason of Mr. Du Ponceau's 
suggestions not having been generally adopted by histo- 
rians and popular writers, is probably to be found, in part, 
in the attachment of writers to existing terms, generally 
known, as well as to the less pleasing rythm of the new 
term. So far as historical causes weigh, the objection lies 
in the heretofore restricted use of the word Lenapee, which 
had been exclusively applied to designate a particular tribe ; 
and not like the word Algonquin, a race of people. 

Mr. Gallatin, in his " S3^nopsis of the Indian Tribes," 
published by the American Antiquarian Society of Massa- 
chusetts, in 1836, proposed to accommodate the question to 
philologists by writing the tw^o terms, and denominating 
this radical stock " Algonkin-Lenapee." The term accu- 
rately reaches the object, but is done at the expense of 
words. Few writers will adopt two words for one, espe- 
cially if the one be previously well known and approved, 
even if the compound is in other respects preferable. In 
the remarks which are to follow, the committee may, it is 
thought, secure for their investigations, the character of 
philological precision, without entering the jfield of dogmati- 
cal discussion. Each term will be considered the equiva- 
lent of the other. They refer to the same family, the same 
principles, and the same generic traits of history and lan- 
guage. The Mincees of the Avest bank of the Hudson, were 
so nearly allied to the Delawares that they might be called 



• Rhode Island, His. Trans, t Gov. Trumbull's letter. I One6ta, No. 4. p. 



APPENDIX. 87 

Delawares. But, while this is admitted, the committee can- 
not consent to call the Mon-a-tons or the Mohegans of the 
east shore Delawares, as has been sometimes vaguely done. 
Such a usage is as far from precision, as it would be, to call 
the Panees or Mandans, Sioux ; the Wyandots, Iroquois, or 
the Miamis or Shawnoes, Chippewas, merely because the 
designated groups respectively speak elementary dialects of 
three sej^arate generic languages. 

§ Historical and philological notice op the minci and 
mohegans, the two leading tribes, who inhabited the 
valley of the hudson. 

In taking up the Indian terminology of the State, in de- 
tail, the first subjects that call for preliminary attention are 
the terms Mohegan, and Minci, the names of the two tribes 
of Algonquin lineage, who inhabited the valley of the 
Hudson, between New York and Albany. 

Mohegan is a word, the meaning of which is not explained 
by the early writers, but if we may trust the deductions of 
philology, it needs create little uncertainty. In the Mohe- 
gan, as spoken at the present time by their lineal descen- 
dants, the Stockbridges of Wisconsin, Maihtshow, is the 
name of the common wolf. It is called, in cognate dialects 
of the Algonquin, Myegan by the Kenistenos, and Myeengun 
by the Chippewas, Otawas, and Pottowattomies. In the 
old Algonquin, as given by La Hontan, it is Mahingan, and 
we perceive, that this was the term employed by the early 
French writers for the Mohegans. In the language of the 
Indian priests or medais, a mystical use of the names of 
various objects in the animated creation is made, in order 
to clothe their arts with a degree of respect and^ authority, 
which ignorant nations are ready to pay to whatever they 
do not fully understand, in other words, that which is mys- 
terious. Thus, in the medicen songs of the Odjibwas, a wolf 
is called, not Myeengun, the popular term, but Moh-hwag. 
It is believed the priests of the ancient Mohegans made 
similar distortion of their words, for similar ends, and that 



88 



APPENDIX. 



the terms Moh hi Kan, and Moh hin gan, used by the early 
French missionary writers for this tribe, furnish the origin of 
the term. The term itself, it is to be understood, by which 
the tribe is known to us, is not the true Indian, but has 
been shorn of a part of its sound, by the early Dutch, 
French, and English writers. The modern tribe of the Mo- 
hegans, to whom allusion has been made, called them- 
selves MuHHEKANiEw. This is, manifestly, a compound de- 
clarative phrase, and not a simple nominative, and is equiv- 
alent to the phrase, I am a Mohegan. It is in accordance 
both with religious custom, and the usage of the Indian 
priesthood, to infer a unity of superstitious practices in 
nearly affiliated tribes. In this manner, the word " Mohe- 
gan," was used to denote, not a common wolf, but the caries 
lupus, under the supposed influence of medical or necro- 
mantic arts. In other words, Mohegan was a phrase to de- 
note an enchanted wolf, or a wolf of supernatural power. 
This was the badge or arms of the tribe, rather than the 
name of the tribe itself. And this, also, it may be inferred, 
constituted originally, the point of distinction, between them 
and the Minci, or wolf tribe proper. 

The affinities of the Mohegans with the Minci, or Mon- 
cees, on the west banks of the Hudson, and through them 
with the Delawares, are apparent, in the language, and 
were well recognized at the era of the settlement. The 
Mincees, as we have before intimated, were one of the origin- 
al families or the tribe of the Lenno Lenapees, from whom, 
however, they had separated before the Discovery, and 
spread themselves over the present area of New Jersey. 
They were the first remove in the chain of ethnological 
affinities. They had lost from their language, the sound of 
the letter ii, so abundant in the parent language, and sub- 
stituted n for it, as their geographical names prove. They 
were, however, in no accurate sense, either philologically 
or historically, Mohegans. The latter constituted, so far as 
we can judge, the second remove in tribal progression, or na- 
tionality. They were at war with the Mincees on the lower 
Jersey shores of the river, yet it is clear, that when a general 



APPENDIX. 89 

council of sachems was called at the fort of New Amster- 
dam by Governor Keift in 1G45, there were present dele- 
gates from the Tappansees, and some other western villa- 
ges.* These villages, it is equally manifest, were in subjec- 
tion to, or under the jurisdiction of leading sachems of the 
Manhattanese or others in close alliance with them, living 
at Sin Sinck, or at higher points on the Westchester coast. 

§ General line of demarcation between these two 

TRIBES, north AND SOUTH. 

These two tribes, were sub-divided into numerous bands, 
each known by a distinctive name, and each assuming, ac- 
cording to their strength or position, some powers of sove- 
reignty. The river Hudson constituted the general boundary 
between them, and across its waters, war parties were con- 
ducted, from time to time, and local conquests, or visits of 
retribution made. There is not much fixity now in the boun- 
daries, and powers of any of our existing tribes, and there 
could have been as little then. The minor bands of each 
party were mere varieties in name, having the same politi- 
cal relation to each other, that one of our modern towai- 
ships along the banks of the river, has to another. As a 
general remark, all the bands of the west shores were 
Mincees, ^all on the east Mohegans. They lived on • ill 
terms with each other, and were frequently engaged in 
open hostilities. Bands of the JMinci type, have left their 
names, on the west shores of the Hudson, from Navisink, on 
the sea shore, to, and above the influx of the Wallkill. They 
spread over all East Jersey. The line between them and 
the Lenni Lcnapees or Delawares proper, it is not easy to 
determine. Mr. Gallatin, in his ethnological map, places 
it at the falls of the Raritan, and thence in the direction of 
the falls of the Delaware. Such a division of authority is 
very plausibly drawn from one of their ancient treaties. f 

The Mohegans on the east shore, have, on the other hand, 



* De Vries, N. Y. His. Col. New Series. t Archalogia Americana. 

8* 



90 



APPENDIX. 



left their names on that bank. They had departed from 
the standard of utterance, in using the sound of th, and in 
giving geographical names their local termination in uk, 
instead of ink. The language as used by them and by the 
analogous bands east of them, was also more consonantal. 
They had, as before premised of the eastern Algics gener- 
ally, lost the 1, and the musical sound of oa, so often heard 
in the Lenapee, as in the verb Ahoala, to love. They were 
characteristically a stern and warlike people. This was 
particularly true of the early Mon-a-tons, who warred 
east upon the Matoacs, and west upon the Sanhicans, a 
band of the Mincees. There is but little reason to doubt that 
the Mohegan stock extended eastward across the sea shores 
of Connecticut, to the boundaries of the jNarragansetts, 
and that the Mohegans and the indomitable Pequots were 
originally, one people. This opinion was affirmed by the 
Connecticut government, 1474, when they declared the title 
of the Pequots to extend to the banks of the Hudson. Had 
this argument been reversed, and the title of the Mohegans 
of the Hudson, been asserted up to the west line of Rhode 
Island, the force of it would appear to have been more in 
consonance with the probable events of history. As a 
question of origin merely, it must naturally have been de- 
cided in favor of the parent source, which from all known 
tradition was west. It was a question, at that day, whether 
the Mohegans were originally Pequots, or the Pequots, Mo- 
hegans. Gov. Clinton, in his discourse before this Society, 
in 1814, inclines to the Mohegan type of supremacy, and 
this opinion is certainly favored by well known events in 
the early history of Connecticut. The rise and dynasty of 
Uncas, can be regarded in no other light, but as a resump- 
tion and appeal to, by him, of the original generic and true 
name, while he left Sassacus to perish with the ill-starred 
soubriquet of Pequot. 



appendix. 91 

§ Question op supremacy between the Algonquin and 
iRoauois race at the era of the settlement of New York. 

But however, the Mohegans and their western neighbors, 
the Mincees differed, both in their language and otherwise, 
they were united in their variance with the Iroquois. The 
Hudson river, which constituted a national boundary be- 
tween them, served only as an avenue of descent for their 
more fierce and powerful enemy from the north. The dis- 
covery of the Hudson and arrival of the Dutch in this con- 
dition of the affair, were fortunate events for these two 
tribes of so-called Mixed or River Indians. Obvious prin- 
ciples of policy led the Dutch to sustain the latter. It was 
equally also their policy to maintain a peace with the for- 
mer. Their prosperity depended upon the Fur Trade, and 
these nations were the elements of it. A noted and long 
remembered convocation of the chiefs of all parties, took 
place about twenty-one years after Hudson first dropped 
anchor in the river, say in 1630, or about fifteen years after 
the building of the first fort at Albany. It occurred but a 
few miles from fort Orange, on the banks of a stream then 
called the Towasentha, flowing in from the Helderberg 
mountains. This stream is known in modern geography as 
Norman's Kill. At this council, a general peace was made, 
between the Mohegans, the Mincees, the Lenni Lenapees 
and the Iroquois. The supreme power of the latter was ac- 
knowledged, as it had been obtained in former conquests 
on the Hudson, the Delaware, and the Susquehanna. This 
general peace and alliance was established, under the super- 
vision of the Dutch authorities, and the right of the Iroquois 
affirmed to preside over and convey the title, in all cessions 
of Indian territory. This right all the southwestern tribes 
recognized, as far south as the Kentucky river, the title to 
the north bank of which, was ceded to the whites by the 
Iroquois,* The Lenapees had long before been conquered by 
these " Romans of the North.'f and dropt the war-club. And 



* Imlay's Hist. Kentucky. t Clinton's Discourse. 



92 APPENDIX. 

this is, in truth, the whole foundation, for that precious 
piece of fanciful reminiscence, in which a subjugated peo- 
ple have endeavored to solace their pride and hide their de- 
feat, by the tradition put forth by the Lenapees that they 
had voluntarily assumed the attitude of Peace Makers. 
Or in symbolic language, put on the Petticoat.* 

It would require, however, greater means of research 
than the Committee has been able to bring to the task, to 
tell when ? or where ? in the whole history of Indian nego- 
ciations they were ever consulted or employed by other 
tribes as ambassadors of peace. The Iroquois would not 
permit them, even to sell land, which they occupied on the 
Susquehanna, without their concurrence and consent, f It 
has been equally difficult to perceive at what time or place 
they ever omitted to take up the tomahawk, when their 
position rendered success probable. 

Some apology may seem to be due for taking so general 
a view of the historical traits of the territorial area to be 
commented on, but it is believed that by this course, the 
Committee will be relieved of embarrassment in its progress. 
Nothing now remains but to indicate the plan of procedure. 
There will be an advantage, it is believed, so far, at least, 
as relates to the labor of investigation, by taking up the 
State geographically or in sections. 

1. Long Island is sufficient in extent, and in the number 
and separation of its aboriginal tribes, to justify the labors 
of a separate report. 

2. The tide waters of the Hudson constitutes another 
separate and ample field for stud5^ 

3. The \'alley of the Mohawk is rich in accessible and 
highl}^ interesting aboriginal associations. 

4. The sources of the Delaware and the Susquehanna, 
require to be investigated for their names, through many 
volumes, and appear to embrace materials enough for a 
distinct report. 

5. The northern sources of the Hudson, of which the 



* Golden. tJ. Hcckewclcler Historical Com. Am. Phi. Transactions. 



APPENDIX. 93 

true discovery and exploration, is, to a great extent, modern, 
and is connected with the State Geological Survey, de- 
mands besides these documents local aid, in gathering up 
its traditions of names. 

6. The borders of lake Champlain, and the valley of the 
St. Lawrence, must also be investigated with particular 
reference to the fact of their early Indian occupancy and 
comparatively recent date of white settlement. 

7. The wide field of western New York, beyond the 
Stanwix Summit, presents, in its sonorous vocabulary of 
names, a still more interesting section of philological re- 
search. Each of these fields of observation, demand time 
and care, with every aid of books, and maps, and reference 
to early surveys, title deeds, and traditions. Little more 
can, indeed, be now attempted, than to make a beginning, 
and it is hoped that the amount of time demanded, and the 
difficulty of acquiring documents, or even enlisting personal 
aid, will plead some indulgence, for the little that is 
offered. 

§ Indian terminology of the islands and bay of New York. 

The first name, which occurs, is that of the Hudson river. 
It does not appear that the discoverer thought of giving it 
his own name. In the narrative of his voyage, it is called 
the Great river of the Mountains, or simply, the Great river. 
This term was simply translated by his employers, the 
servants of the Dutch West India Company, who, on the 
early maps of Nova Belgica, called it Groote Riviere. It 
was afterwards called Nassau, after the reigning House, 
but this name was not persevered in. At a subsequent 
time, they gave it the name of Mauritius, after Prince 
Maurice, but this name, if it was ever much in vogue, either 
did not prevail against, or was early exchanged for the 
popular term of North River — a name, which it emphati- 
cally bore to distinguish it from the Lenapihittuck or Dela- 
ware, which they called the South river. [Zuydt Rivier.] 
That the name of Mauritius was but partially introduced, 



94 APPENDIX. 

is indicated by the reply made by the New England autho- 
rities to a letter respecting boundaries of Gov. Kieft, in 
1646, in which they declare, in answer to his complaint of 
encroachments on its settlements, their entire ignorance of 
any river bearing this name. 

Neither of the Indian names, by which it was called, 
appear to have found much favor. The Mohegans called 
it Shatemuc. Shaita, in the cognate dialect of the Odjibwa, 
means a pelican. It cannot be affirmed, to denote the same 
object in this dialect, nor is it known that the pelican has 
ever been seen on this river. Uc is the ordinary inflection 
for locality. The Mincees, occupying the west banks, called it 
Mohegan-ittuck. The syllable itt, before uck, is one of 
those transitive forms, by which the action of the nomina- 
tive is engrafted upon the objective, without communi- 
cating any new meaning. The signification of the term is, 
Mohegan river. The Iroquois, (as given by the interpreter 
John Bleeker, and communicated by the late Dr. Samuel L. 
Mitchill in a letter to Dr. Miller in 1811,) called Ca ho ha 
ta te a,* — that is to say, if we have apprehended the word, 
the great river having mountains beyond the Cahoh or 
Cahoes Falls. 

The three prominent Indian names for the Hudson are, 
therefore, the Mohegan, the Ciiatemuc, and the Cahotatea. 

The river appears to have been also called, by other 
tribes of the Iroquois confederacy, Sanataty. The word 
ataty, here, is the same written atatea, above, and is 
descriptive of various scenes according to its prefix. The 
English first named the river, the Hudson, after the surren- 
der of the colony in 1664. It does not appear, under this 
name, in any Dutch work or record, which has been ex- 
amined. It may be observed, that the term has not 
exclusively prevailed, to the present day, among New 
Yorkers in the river counties, where the name of North 
River is still popular. It will be recollected, as a proof of 
the prevailing custom, that Fulton called his first boat, to 
test the triumph of steam, "The North River." 



■' Vide Dr. Miller's Historical Discourse. 



APPENDIX. 95 

If the river failed to bear to future times, either of its 
original names, the island, as the nominative of the city, 
was equally unfortunate, the more so, it is conceived, as the 
name of the city became the name of the state. Regret 
has been expressed, that some one, of the sonorous and ap- 
propriate Indian names of the west, had not been chosen to 
designate the state. The colonists, were but little regardful 
of questions of this kind. Both the Dutch in 1 609 and the 
English in 1664, came with precisely the same force of 
national prepossession — the first, in favor of Amsterdam, 
and the second in favor of New York — both connected 
with the belittling adjective " New." It is characteristic of 
the English, that they have sought to perpetuate the re- 
membrance of their victories, conquests and discoveries, by 
these geographical names. And the word New York, if it 
redound less to their military or naval glory, than Blen- 
hiem, Trafalgar and Waterloo, may be cited to show, that 
this vi^as an early developed trait of character of the Eng- 
lish, abroad as well as at home. It would be well, indeed, 
if their descendants in America had been a little more alive, 
to the influence of this trait. Those who love the land, and 
cherish its nationalities, M^ould at least have been spared, 
in witnessing the growth and development of this great 
city, the continued repetition of foreign, petty or vulgar 
names, for our streets and squares and public resorts, while 
such names as Saratoga and Ticonderoga, Niagara and 
Ontario, Iosco and Owasco, are never thought of* 

The Indians called the island Mon-a-ton — dropping the 
locol inflection uk. The word is variously written by early 
writers. The sound as pronounced to me in 1827 by Me- 
toxon, a Mohegan chief, is Mon ah tan uk, a phrase which 
is descriptive of the whirlpool of Ilellgate. 3Ton or man, 
as here written, is the radix of the adjective bad, carrying, 
as it does, in its multiplied forms, the various meanings 
of violent, dangerous, &c., when applied in compounds. 
Ah tun, is a generic term for a channel, or stream of run- 



* Vide Letter to Hon. J. Harper, appended. 



96 APPENDIX. 

ning water. Uk, denotes locality, and also plurality. When 
the tribe had thus denoted this passage, which is, confessed- 
ly, the most striking and characteristic geographical feature 
of the region, they called the island near it, to imply the 
Anglacized term, Man-hat-tan, and themselves Mon-a-tuns, 
that is to say, " People of the Whirlpool." It is well known 
that the Indian tribes, have, generally, taken their distinc- 
tive names from geographical features. The Narragan- 
setts, as we are told by Roger Williams, took that name, 
from a small island off the coast.* Massachusetts, accord- 
ing to the same authority, signifies the Blue Hills, and is 
derived from the appearance of lands at sea. Mississaga, 
signifies they live at the mouth large river, and by an 
inflection, the people who live at the mouth of the large 
river or waters. Onondago, means the people who live 
on the hill. Oneida, the people who sprang from a rock, 
&c. These names afford no clue to nationalty, they pre- 
serve no ethnological chain. 

The traditionf that this island derives its name from the 
accidental circumstance of the intoxication of the Indians 
on Hudson's first visit, in 1609, is a sheer inference, unsup- 
ported by philology. That the tradition of such an event 
was preserved and related to the early missionaries by the 
Mohegan Indians, admits of no doubt, nor is there more, 
that the island was referred to as the place where their 
ancestors first obtained the taste of ardent spirits. That 
the island had no name prior, to 1609, or if well known by 
a characteristic name, that this elder name was then 
dropped and a new name bestowed, in allusion to this 
circumstance of the intoxication, is not only improbable, on 
known principles, but is wholly unsustained, as will have 
been perceived by the above etymology. The word for 
intoxication, or dizziness from drink, in the Algonquin, and 
with little change in all the cognate dialects, is Ke wush kud 
bee. The verb to drink in the same dialects is 3Iin e kwd, 



* Collections of the Rhode Island Historical Society, Vol. 3. 
t Collections New York Historical Society, vol. 1. New Series. 



APPENDIX. 97 

in the Mohegan " Minahn" — words having none of the ne- 
cessary elements of this compound. Very great care is, 
indeed, required in recording Indian words, to be certain 
that the word given, is actually expressive of the object of 
inquiry. Some curious and amusing examples of mistakes 
of this kind might be given, did it comport with the limits of 
this report. 

There were several Indian villages, or places of resort, on 
the island of Mon-a-tun, for which the original names have 
survived. The extreme point of land, between the junction 
of the East and North rivers, of which the Battery is now a 
part, was called Kapsee — and within the memory of per- 
sons still living was known as "the Copsie point" — a term 
which appears to denote a safe place of landing, formed by 
eddy w^aters. There was a village called Sapokanican, on 
the shores of the Hudson, at the present site of Greenwich. 
Corlear's Hook was called Naghtongk.* The particle 
tonk, here, denotes sand. A tract of meadow land on the 
north end of the island, near Kingsbridge, was called 
Muscoota, that is, meadow or grass land. Warpoes was a 
term bestowed on a piece of elevated ground, situated 
above and beyond the small lake or pond called the 
KoLCK. This term is, apparently, a derivative from Waw- 
bose, a hare. 

The islands around the city had their appropriate names. 
Long Island was called Metoac, after the name of the 
Metoacks, the principal tribe located on it. It is thus 
called by Van Der Donck in 1656, and in all the subsequent 
maps of authority, down to Evans', in 1755. Smith calls it 
Meitowacks. In Gov. Clinton's discourse, it is printed 
Meilowacks, but this is evidently a typographical error. 

Staten Island, we are informed by De Vries, was occu- 
pied by the Mon-a-tans, Mho called it Monocknong with a 
verbal prefix. The termination is ong, denotes locality. 
Manon is the ironwood tree, ack denotes a tree, or trunk, 
and admits a prefix from '' manadud," bad. By enquiry it 



* Nechtank (Dutch notation.) 

9 



98 APPENDIX. 

does not appear that the ironwood, although present, ever 
existed in sufficient abundance to render the name from 
that characteristic* The other, it -is too late to investigate. 
It is believed the expression had an implied meaning, and 
denoted the Haunted Woods. 

Thus far the colonial maps and records, so far as they 
have fallen under the committee's notice. The vocabulary 
of the Mohegans affords, however, a few^ other terms, the 
application of which may be well assumed from their 
etymology. Of this kind is the term Naosh, for Sandy 
Hook, meaning a point surpassing others. Minnisais, or the 
lesser island, for Bedlow's island ; and Kioshk, or Gull 
island, for Ellis's island. The heights of Brooklyn are 
graphically described in the term Ihpetonga; that is, high 
sandy banks. 

The geological structure of the island was such as to 
bring it to a much narrower point, than it now occupies. 
By the recent excavations for the foundations of Trinity 
Church, and the commercial buildings now in the process 
of erection on the site of the old Presbyterian Church in 
Wall-street, the principal stratum is seen to be of coarse 
grey sea sand, capped with a similar soil, mixed with vege- 
table mould and feruginous oxide. From the make of 
the land, the Indian path, on the Trinity plateau, forked at 
the foot of the Park, and proceeded east of the small lake 
called the Kolck [AgieQon] to the rise of ground at Chat- 
ham square. Here, or not far from it, was the eminence 
called Waepoes, probably the site of a village, and so 
named from its chief. The stream and marsh existing 
where Canal street now runs, gave this eastern tendency 
to the main path. At or beyond Warpoes, another fork in 
the path became necessary, to reach the banks of the Hud- 
son at the Indian village of Lapinikan, now Greenwich. 
In this route laid the eminence of Ishpatena, late Richmond 
Hill, at the corner of Charlton and Varick streets. The 
path leading from the intcrjunction at Warpoes, or Chat- 



* MS. letter from R. M. Tyson, Esq. 



APPENDIX. 99 

ham square, to Nahtonk, or Corlear's Hook, had no interme- 
diate village, of which the name has survived. This 
portion of the island was covered with a fine forest of nut 
wood, oaks and other hard- wood species, interspersed with 
grassy glades, about the sites of the Indian villages. The 
upper part of the island was densely wooded. Above 40th 
street it was unfavorable for any purpose but hunting, and 
much of the middle part of it, as between 5th and 8th Ave- 
nues, was either shoe-deep under water or naturally 
sphagnous. This arose, as is seen, at this day, from a 
clayey stratum, which retains the moisture, whereas the 
w^hole island below this location, particularly below the 
brow of the sycnitic formation of 37th street, &c., consisted 
of gravel and sand, which absorbed the moisture and render- 
ed it the most favorable site for building and occupation. 
On the margin of the Hudson, the water reached, tradition 
tells us, to Greenwich-street There is a yellow painted 
wooden house still standing at the northeast corner of 
Courtland and Greenwich streets, which had the water 
near to it. Similar tradition assures us, that Broad street 
was the site of a marsh and small creek. The same may 
be said of the foot of Maiden lane, once Fly Market, and of 
the outlet of the Muskeeg or Swamp, now Ferry street. 
Pearl street marked the winding margin of the East river. 
Foundations dug here reach the ancient banks of oyster 
shells. AsHiBic denotes the probable narrow ridge or ancient 
cliff north of Beekman street, which bounded the marsh 
below. OciTOc is a term for the heighth of land in 
Broadway, at Niblo's ; Abik, a rock rising up in the Bat- 
tery; Penabio, Mt. Washington, or the Comb Mountain. 
These notices, drawn from philology, and, in part, the 
earlier geographical accounts of New Belgium, might be 
extended to a few other points, which are clearly denoted ; 
but are deemed sufficient to sustain the conclusions, which 
the committee have arrived at, that the main configuration 
of the leading thoroughfares of the city, from the ancient 
canoe-place at Copsie or the Battery, extending north to 
the Park, and thence to Chatham square and the Bowery, 



100 APPENDIX. 

and west to Tivoli Garden, &c., were ancient roads, in the 
early times of Holland supremacy, which followed the 
primary Indian foot paths. 

Governor's island bore the name of Nut island, during 
the Holland supremacy, in Dutch Nntten; but whether, as 
is suspected, this was a translation of the Indian Pecanuc, 
or " nut trees," is not certain. As a general remark, it may 
be said that the names of the Mon-a-tons, or Manhattanese, 
were not euphonous, certainly less so than those of the Dela- 
ware or Iroquois. 

§ Aboriginal names of the valley of the Hudson between 
New York and Albanv ; east banks, as high as the mouth 
OF the Mohawk. 

We are now prepared to ascend the Hudson. The first 
name of importance, above the island, is Croton — a name 
of classic sound but unquestionably derived from the Indian, 
though a corruption of the original, and not originally ap- 
plied by them to the river. In a deed dated in 1685, which 
is quoted by Judge Benson, the river is called Kitchawan — 
a term which is descriptive of a large and swift flowing 
current. Croton, as stated by the same authority, is a cor- 
ruption of the name of a Chief, who lived and exercised his 
authority, at the mouth of this stream. It is clearly, a de- 
rivative from Kenotin, or Knoten or, as it is often used 
without the pronoun prefixed, Notin, meaning, in either 
case, the wind, or a tempest. It is a man's name, still com- 
mon in the west and north. The first Indian village above 
this stream was called WicKauASKECK, or the Place of the 
Bark Kettle. Above it, on the same shore, was the village 
of Alipkonck, that is a Place of Elms. This part of the 
shores of the Hudson, assumes a rocky character — the banks 
immediately opposite consist of a continuous elevated line 
of precipices, in the well-known Palisadoes ; but the for- 
mation on the east banks developes itself in broken, pro- 
tuberant rocks. Quarries of the dolomite and white coarse 
grained marble, are opened here. There is nothing more 



APPENDIX. 101 

characteristic of the structure of the coast, than its " muni- 
tions of rocks." The judgment of the aborigines is vindi- 
cated in the name of " OsiNsiNo" bestowed upon their village 
seated on this coast. This is the origin of the w^ord Sing 
Sing. It is written on some of the earlier maps, Sinsing, 
and SiNsiNCK. It is a derivative from Ossin, a stone, and 
ing, a place. This shore was inhabited, during the times 
of Governor Kieft by a band of the Manhattans or Mon-a- 
tuns, called the Sintsings, who sent a delegate to the general 
council held at Fort Amsterdam, on the 30th August, 1645. 

Mr. Irving has preserved in the word Pocantico, the name 
of a tributary stream of the Hudson above this point, in 
Westchester county. On early maps, the next Indian vil- 
lages, in their succession, are, Kiskisko, Pasquaspiic, and 
NoAPAiM. There was also, along the east shores of the 
Tappan, the village of Kastoniuck, (a term still surviving 
in the opposite village of Niuck or Nyack.) All these were 
situated south of the Highlands. The Highlands east, were 
occupied by a band of Indians called the Wiccapees, or 
as sometimes written Weckees. They were of the tribe of 
the Waoranacks. Above them, and along that part of the 
river, which now composes the county of Dutchess, lived 
the derivative tribe of the Abingas, or Wappingers. Fish- 
kill, which constituted the chief locality, was called Mat- 
te aw an, a term still retained. It is said, in the popular 
traditions of the county, to signify " good furs," as the stream 
was noted, in early days, for its peltries.* It is a derivation 
as the term plainly denotes, from Metai, a magician, or 
medicine-man, and wian, a skin, and means, in this connec- 
tion, not simply " good fur," or a good skin, but a charmed, 
or enchanted skin. Much of the medical power of all the 
early Indian priests and doctors — the two practices were 
united — was devoted to the arts of medical magic. They 
affected, by the power of magic or secret enchantment, 
to govern the movements of animals in the chase, and taught 
their followers the art of hunting bv charms, as the cognate 



* R. G. Rankin, Esq. 
9* 



102 APPENDIX. 

tribes still do, in the west, and north-west, where they often 
exact high fees for these services. The true import and im- 
portance of this name, will appear from these hints. One 
such name is, in fact, sufficient, in its full development, to 
invest the scenery of the country, with the poetic associa- 
tions of these ancient, wild foresters. 

The stream now called Wappinger's Creek, was in the 
same dialect, called the Waha-manessing — a term, having 
its ground- form in mi7inis, an island, with the common local 
inflection in ing ; but without particular enquiry into the 
geographical characteristics of this stream, its nominative 
prefix, in waha, could not be satisfactorily determined. 

There is a prominent mountain range, above the High- 
lands, east of the Hudson, which rises in Dutchess county 
and extends northwardly through the back part of Colum- 
bia. This range separates, geologically, the upper part 
of the valleys of the Hudson and the Housatonic. The 
earlier orthography of the Indian name for it is Tachkanic. 
It is more commonly written, at this day, and with some 
advantage, while the original sound is essentially preserved, 
Taconick. Another mountain spur, of a detached character, 
in the south part of Dutchess, is called the Shenandoah 
mountain. Tradition tells us, that it is so called from the 
name of a band, or sub-tribe of Indians who inhabited this 
part of the county, and who, at the era of the American 
Revolution, were reduced to one man.* The word is the 
same ^vhich is applied to the valley of Virginia, having its 
exit into the Potomac at Harper's Ferry ; and may be cited, 
among some other philological evidences, to be found in the 
valley of the Hudson and its extensive bay and seaward 
islands, of the early transfusion of the Powhattanic type of 
the Algonquin, among the more prominent and prevalent 
Lenapee dialects of the southern part of our State. By a 
tradition of the Mohegans, it is perceived that intercommu- 
nications, and strong personal friendships existed, between 



* MSS. Letter of L. M. Arnold. 



APPENDIX. 103 

some of the tribes, thus widely separated, prior to the era 
of the colonization.* 

The name of Poughkeepsie, is variously written. It is 
spelt, on Evans' map of 1775, Pakepsy ; in Loskiel, Peekipsi. 
Local tradition, supported by the examination of ancient 
title deeds from the Indians, reveals the original orthogra- 
phy of the word in Afokeepsing. There is, at the mouth of 
the Fallkill, a sheltered inlet, and safe harbor for small 
boats. As the reach below is wide, and often subjected the 
Indian canoes and small craft, to peril, this shelter became 
a prominent place of safety, extensively known to the tribes 
along the river. It is this geographical feature, which is 
described by the term Apokeepsing. It denotes, graphically, 
the locality, and its being a place of shelter from storms. 
The present orthography of the word, is unnecessarily redun- 
dant, in the first syllable. It has dropped, in conformity 
with general English and Dutch usage in adopting Indian 
words, the local inflection in ing ; which is, to us, a redun- 
dancy. In other respects, the original is well preserved. 

The Fallkill was called the Winnakee. The earliest 
patent was granted to Robert Sanders and Myndert Her- 
mance, of Albany, dated October 20th, 1686. In this patent 
the falls are called Pondowickrain. This fall is near the 
mouth of the stream, and in full view from the Hudson. 

Crumelbow Creek was called Nancopacanioc. Caspar 
Creek, a little below Barnegat, five miles from the village, 
\vas called PiEXAWisauAssic. Bands of the Minnisinks, from 
the west shores, were intermingled in this part of Dutchess. 

A band, or sub tribe called Sepascoots, lived at Rhinebeek. 
They had their principal seat 18 miles north of Poughkeep- 
sie, and 3 miles east of the Hudson river. At Redhook 
Landing, there was another clan or large band. Tradition 
asserts, that a great battle was fought near the latter place, 
between the River Indians and the Five Nations. The first 
settlers, it is said, still saw the bones of the slain. 

For the present eligible site of Hudson, and the bay 



• Vide Oneota, p. 105. 



104 APPENDIX. 

and mountain elevation south of it, no aboriginal name has 
been met with, although such doubtless existed. Generally 
speaking, the Mohegan terms were of greater length than 
it was found convenient to employ, and the Dutch, who in 
this respect, coincided with the English, preferred shorter 
names. 

Kinderhook is of Dutch origin. The term is a derivative 
from Kinders, children, and Hook, a point or corner. Tradition 
asserts that it originated, in the era of its settlement, from 
the circumstance of the occupant of a well-known house on 
the point of land called Kinderhook Landing, having a 
numerous family of children.* There is a small lake in 
Columbia county, bearing the Indian name of Copake. A 
township of the same county, is named, after it, Copake. 
A well known valley, with a small stream in the township 
of Ghent, in the same county, is called by its original name 

of SaOMPOMICK. 

The Mohegans of this bank of the Hudson, extended their 
villages, up to a point opposite to, and also above the junction 
of the Mohawk, covering the entire area of the present coun- 
ties of Columbia and Rensselaer. The seat of their council 
fire, was, for a length of time, at Schodac. This word appears 
to be a derivative from ishcoda, a meadow, or fire-plain, per- 
haps, mediately, through the word straw, and akee, land. Hoo- 
sic may be traced to Wudyoo, a mountain, and abic, a rock. 
A branch of the Iloosic, was called Shackook. It had a fall 
called Qui-auEK.f As the settlements pressed upon this 
tribe, they retired eastwardly to the valley of the Housa- 
tonic, in Massachusetts, where they came under the notice 
of the Society for the propagating the Gospel in Foreign 
Parts, and were, for a long period, under the instruction of 
the celebrated Jonathan Edwards, and other missionaries. 
As the place of their principal concentration, was called 
Stockbridge, this term attached itself to the tribe and their 
descendants in the west, are now known to us by it. At 



* Verb. Com. of M. Butler, Esq. of Kinderhook, also, Spofford's Gazetteer. 
t Cain's Reports. Hoosic Patent, 3 vol. Query for analogy hunters. Quick- 
Quick ! 



APPENDIX. 105 

Stockbridge, the Mohegans, were converted to Christianity, 
abandoned the chase, as a means of subsistence, and 
Adopted the arts of civilized Ufe. A regularly organ- 
ized corps, officered by the chiefs, served in the American 
cause, in the Revolutionary war. At its close, they migra- 
ted to the reservation of the Oneidas, in Western New 
York, whence, after the year 1820, they removed to the 
banks of Fox river in Wisconsin, having purchased lands 
of the Menomonees. This location was ceded at a subse- 
quent period, in lieu of two townships of land eligibly situa- 
ted on the north-eastern shores of Winnebago lake. Here 
they are living, at this time (1845) as an agricultural people, 
having good farms, dwellings, cattle, schools, and churches, 
and they may, without exaggeration, be pronounced a re- 
claimed people. Congress should admit them, without hesi- 
tation, to all the rights of citizenship. 

§ Indian names of the right or west banks of the Hud- 
son, FROM the ATLANTIC TO THE ENTRANCE OF THE MoHAVVK. 

We shall now direct attention to the opposite shores of 
the river. The first prominent object on the west shore, 
which attracts the eye of a person coming in from the sea, is 
the Neversink. From ancient maps, in the possession of 
the Society, there was a band, or sub tribe, called the Neve 
Sincks, living in this vicinity, in 1659. They occupied the 
angular area lying between the Atlantic waters and Rari- 
tan bay, embracing these highlands, and extending to Bar- 
negat bay. As in many analogous cases, it is difficult to 
decide, whether the highland gave name to the band, or 
the band to the highland. The former is most in accord- 
ance with analogy. The signification of the term is, in 
either case, clear. Nawa, is an adverbial phrase, meaning 
between. It is derived from the abstract prepositional form, 
Na-wi-e-e, meaning any inanimate object, intermediate 
between others. In this case, it denoted the position of this 
Band between the waters of the Atlantic and Raritan bay, 
or of the Staten Island waters and New York harbor gene- 



106 APPENDIX. 

rally. Ink is a term for locality. This particle, so common 
in Algonquin words, means, when applied to dry land, a 
place, a hill, plain, valley, &c. according to the word, to 
which it is attached ; when bestowed on waters, it means 
a bay, cove, inlet, river, &c. The meaning is clearly the 
mid-mountain, or the Highland between the waters. The 
tendency of the Dutch language to substitute the sound of 
V for w, will account for the change in the orthography. In 
the letter e, in their system of notation, is always used to 
express the sound of ii. The word would have been writ- 
ten by an Englishman Nawasink, and should, now, in its 
popular form, be written Navisink. 

Raritan was the name of one of the local tribes of the 
Minci. The letter R, in this word is foreign. Amboy is a 
name descriptive of a peculiarly or bottle-shaped bay. 

The point at present occupied by Jersey City, was called 
Ahasimus. Hoboken, is the name of one of the members of 
a respectable Holland family living, at the era of the settle- 
ment, in Amsterdam, Weehawken is apparently a deriva- 
tive from Weeh-ruk-ink, but whether originally applied, as 
at present, to the commencement only, or to the entire range 
of the picturesque range of the Pallisadoes, is not certain. 
The termination in awk, denotes trees ; but is suspected 
here, to indicate a structure of the rock resembling trees. 
In the MS. map of Gerardus Bancker, in the Society's Li- 
brary, this coast is denominated the " Highlands of Tappan." 
It is perceived, in De Vries, that there was a band of Indians 
called the Tappans, who are several times mentioned in the 
capricious and violent transactions which marked the era 
of Kieft's administration. They were represented in the 
general council held at Fort Amsterdam in 1645. There is 
a tradition, which calls this ancient tribe Tappansees. The 
term " see" now applied to the bay is however generally 
thought to be of Dutch origin. In the modern Algonquin 
** Tabanzee," denotes a short or crouching person, which it is 
merely suggestive, may have been a term applied to the 
prominent cliff, which casts its shadows into the expanse 
from the west shores. Whether the bay was named from 



APPENDIX. 107 

them, or they took their name from the place of their resi- 
dence, on the bay, is indeterminate. The ancient name of 
Haverstraw bay, was Kumochenack. The name of Nyack 
does not occur in records of the earliest period, for the posi- 
tion of the present town. The word is found in an opposite 
Indian village of Kastoniuk. There was also a band of 
Indians of the name of Naiack, who in 1645, were living 
below Red Hook, on Long Island. The clans of the west 
shores of the Hudson, were very much mixed and sub-di- 
vided. In the many vicissitudes of the era, and the complex 
movements of the so called River Indians, or Mohekander, 
migrations doubtless extended up the Hudson. The Mon-a- 
tans were on ill terms with the Metoacs, or Long Island 
Indians, and sometimes at open war, with them, as well as 
with the Mincees, or Monseys on the west shores. Such a 
removal, would have been quite in accordance with sound 
policy ; and there are some other points in the lexicography 
of the coast, which denote such an intermixture. 

The stream coming in at Grasy Point, was called the 
MiNiNisicoNGo. A peculiar and remarkable formation of 
the banks of this stream denotes the origin of the name. 
After its origin in high grounds west of Haverstraw, it flows 
to within less than a hundred yards of the Hudson, which it 
would seem designed to enter, but is deflected back west- 
w^ard, and after running around a large island-shaped area, 
by a channel of several miles, actually enters the Hudson 
but a mile below the first threatened point of entry. This 
point is a mere diluvial formation of pebbles, clay and boul- 
ders, which a little labor would admit the creek to pass 
through. Such a change would convert the peninsula into 
an island. It seems indeed quite probable that the island- 
shaped area, was, at an ancient date, wholly surrounded by 
the waters of the Iludson. The tide now flows quite around 
it. The term Mennisecongo, describes this formation. It 
is a derivative from Minnis, an island, and the adverbial 
particle ongo, itself a compound from ong, and o, an ob- 
jective sign. 

The coast above the Highlands, comprising the present 



108 APPENDIX. 

county of Orange, was occupied by the Waranowankings. 
The mountains in Orange county, called Shawangunk, ap- 
pear to have been named either from their structure from 
sand, and their position south of the Katz-berg group. The 
word seems a compound from Shawanong, the south, the 
generic particle tang, denoting sands, with k the sign of 
locality. 

These clans were succeeded, in ascending north, through 
the general area of Ulster and Green counties, by the Min- 
nisinks, the Nanticokes, the Minsees, and Delawares proper, 
who poured in the Hudson valley through the Wallkill, and 
were often vaguely denominated "Esopus Indians" — from 
the place of their trade. 

Esopus, though classic in sound, is a word said to be deri- 
vative from the Indian, but the committee have not been 
able to trace such an origin. The nearest approach to it, 
is in Seepus, the name of a river by the Metoacs, and Seepu 
or Sipu having the same meaning in Minci. The Indians 
who dwelt here, on the arrival of the Dutch, were a mixed 
race of the Minci, in their form of the Minnisinks, and the 
Nanticokes from the sea shore of Maryland and Virginia, 
whence they had early migrated. They have not left the 
remembrance of any very high traits, and probably sunk 
away and disappeared rapidly. The Dutch bestowed the 
name of Wiltw^ck upon the place — a term which may be 
rendered into English by the word Indiana. The popular 
name of Esopus, which some suppose, but without much 
probability, to be of Greek origin, through the Holland race 
prevailed, till superseded by the present term of Kingston. 
As the water communication, from this point to the Dela- 
ware, was a very prominent one, long known and celebrated 
among the Indians, the probability of its having been called 
by way of preeminence, The River, or Seepus, as above hint- 
ed, is still worthy consideration. The dipthong ae with which 
this word is written, and to which it owes, chiefly, its foreign 
aspect, is wholly of a comparatively recent date. Colonel 
Nichols, in 1G65, in his proclamation, printed at Cambridge, 
spells it " Sopes." 



APPENDIX. 109 

The Katskill Mountains, or Katzbergs, as certain of our 
popular writers have well called them,* are said to derive 
their name from the catamount or panther,f the most formi- 
dable of the feline race, in our latitudes. This animal, which 
is still known to inhabit the region, is called Catlos in the 
Dutch language — a term which it is known this people never 
applied to the domestic cat. The term Kotzaband, has 
been noticed in one of the earlier maps, as a generic or 
geological phrase applied to the entire Katzberg groupe. 
In this sense, it would embrace all the mountainous features 
of secondary origin, reaching from the Shawangunk to the 
Schoharie and the Helderbergs. 

Some pains have been taken to search our Indian archae- 
ology, for the aboriginal name for this noble group, but 
without the degree of certainty which is desired. The 
term Beezhoac, in these dialects, denotes Panther moun- 
tain ; it is a derivative from Beezhu, a panther, or lynx, 
and akee land. Ishpiac is another term applicable to the 
groupe. It denotes, simply, high land, and is derived from 
Ishpiming, " that is high," and akee land. Ispiming is the 
local form of the adjective high, and is the term for sky or 
the heavens. It is not probable that the rji;hm of either of 
these, or other aboriginal terms impressed themselves on 
the notice of the early settlers. It was the practice of both 
the French and Dutch traders and interpreters, to translate 
the Indian names of rivers, &c. into their respective lan- 
guages. This has been found universal, throughout the 
continent, in relation to points of geography, which bore a 
prior Indian name. We have the authority of Benson, for 
stating, that the practice prevailed here, and that the Dutcb 
names of Katzberg and Katzkill, were given from the 
panther or lynx, animals who infested the gloomy recesses 
of these mountains, and not from the harmless domestic 
species. To the Iroquois, however, who came into the val- 
ley stealthily and on war parties, its natural history would 
be less perfectly known, and it is from the sonorous vocabu- 



* Hoffman and W. L. Stone, t Benson's memoir before the Historical Society. 
10 



1 1© APPENDIX. 

lary of this race that we have derived the term Ontiora, 
meaning mountains of the sky. There are states of the 
atmosphere when this group appears like a heavy cumulus 
cloud above the horizon, and this is clearly the feature 
denoted. Tiorate, in the Onondaga dialect, means the sky 
or heaven, and Ononta, a mountain. 

The word Minnisink is derived from Minnis, an island situ- 
ated in the Delaware, which was formerly occupied by a 
band of the lineage of the Minci or Moncees. It has its local 
termination in ink. It was here that Brainerd had some of 
his severest labors and trials. The entry of the Wallkill 
into the Hudson from the direction of the Delaware, ren- 
dered it an eligible point for the Indian trade ; numerous 
small bands were seated in this vicinity, who have left 
names in the existing geography of the country. Warwar- 
siNG signifies the place of the bird's nest. Bearen island 
bore the name of Passapenock.* In the Katskill patent 
there were several great plains, one of which bore the name 

of PoTECK.f 

The word Coxackie is a compound derivative from 
Keeshkidg to cut, and a-kee, earth. By observation, it will 
be seen that the current of the Hudson, at this point, is de- 
flected against the west shore, an effect which was proba- 
bly still more striking to the eye before the country was 
cultivated. Owing to this cause, there is but a narrow 
strip of land between the river and the hill. There can be 
no doubt but that, at an early period, the action of the 
river, trenched on this hill, and cut do\vn, as it were, the 
earth, and threw it into the river. This is the particular 
effect described by the word Kuxakee, or the cut-banks. 

The present site of Coeymans, bore the name of Sanago. J 
A mill creek, above this point, was called Sektanac. Two 
miles higher there was a village called Mekago.§ There is 
a stream entering the Hudson, a little below Coeymans, 
bearing the aboriginal name of Hakitak, pronounced Hoki- 



< 



» Johnson's' Reports, 8. t Cain, 3. 293. 

X Spelt with a plural inflection, Lannahgog, Vide Dutch Records at Albany. 

§ Recorded with its diminutive inflection in nse, Alb. Rec. 



APPENDIX. Ill 

Toc. This is the highest point, except an ancient term for 
Albany itself, to which the Minci type of the Lennopean 
names has been traced. 

§ Terminology of the ancient site of Albany and its 
vicinity. 

The site of Albany appears to have been an important 
central point, at a very early period in our Indian history. 
It was at this spot, and the parts adjacent that the tribes of 
the two great races, the Iroquois and Algonquins, came into 
contact, and we consequently find, in its geography, a mix- 
ture of the names of two generic languages. The first 
Iroquois term noticed, in the ascent of the river to this 
place, is the ancient Mohawk name for the Norman's Kill. 
This stream was called the Tawasentha, meaning the place 
of many dead.* The term Iosco, applied to one of its 
branches issuing from the Pine Plains, in Guilderland town- 
ship, is of Algonquin origin. It was on the island, in the 
Hudson, at the mouth of this stream, that the first Dutch 
fort, commanded by Captain Christians, was built, A. D. 
1614. This island was, at the time, a noted place of 
encampment and trade for the Iroquois. The portage path 
from the Mohawk across the Pine Plains reached the 
river, and terminated about two miles above, at the pre- 
sent site of Albany. The location of the city itself, under 
the preponderating influence of the fur trade, at that early 
day, seemed to have been, in a great measure, determined 
by the importance of this terminal point of this great Indian 
thoroughfare. The Mohawks, and other kindred tribes, who 
came from the west, and were compelled to traverse this 
sandy tract, called its southern terminus, as the word was 
recently pronounced by Mrs, Kerr,f Skahnektate — a word 
which has been uniformly written Schenectady. By the 
Oneidas and by the Senecas, the pronunciation of the term 



Giles F. Yates, Esqr. Newspapers. t A daughter of Thyandanegea. 



112 APPENDIX, 

is much softer and more euphonious, conformably with the 
general idiom of those two dialects. From the lips of 
either of these tribes the modern orthography would be 
perfect, were the penultimate syllable exchanged for the 
dipthong SB, preceded by the letter t instead of d. Its mean- 
ing, as imparted by the above quoted authority, is. Beyond 
the Pines. The objective phrase tatea, is the same, with 
very little variation, which is found in the name for the 
Hudson, and denotes how varied and flexible the language 
is, in its descriptive powers. 

By the Mincees and other tribes of the Lennopean stock, 
who occupied the right banks of the Hudson, but who were 
not alone limited to that side, this site was called Kaishti- 
Nic, or Gaishtinnic, of which the meaning is not known. 
The Mohegans, who, with the other tribes, were from the 
earliest date of the settlement in the habit of resorting to it, 
as a place of treaty and trade, denominated it Chescodonta, 
or "the hill of the great Council Fire." Council Fire is, 
with all our tribes, the equivalent phrase for seat of govern- 
ment, and we may thus yield them precedence in predict- 
ing the future capitol of the state. 

The Dutch, who soon transferred the fort from the island 
to the river's margin in the lower part, the present site of 
South Market street, named it, after the reigning house, 
Orange. The village which soon clustered around it, they 
named Beaverwj^ck. The manor granted to K. Van Rens- 
selaer, had its boundaries assigned under the name of 
Rensselaerwyck. The civil jurisdiction, baliwick, or Sheriff- 
dom, which extended to the Mohawk, bore the title of 
Schenectady. This constituted the nomenclature of the 
place, according to the best authorities, when the colony 
W£LS taken by the English crown, under the authority of 
the Duke of York and Albany, who bestowed his Scottish 
title on the place. The civil jurisdiction established, on 
this change, left a part of the former boundaries, with the 
Sheriff actually in office, residing on the other verge of the 
Plains, on the banks of the Mohawk, and thus the name of 



APPENDIX. 113 

Schenectady was transferred.* The transference of name, 
to the present city of Schenectady, took place in 1664. A 
considerable hill, about three miles northwest of Albany in 
the Plains, formerly a place of Indian trade, was called, by 
the Mohawks, Itsutehera, or by using its common prefix — 
Yonondis-Itsutchera. The meaning is, the Hill of Oil. 
It is not known how this name originated. It was called, 
till within late years. Trader's Hill. 

The present site of Waterford was called Nachtenac, a 
word whose termination in ac, reveals the term akee, earth 
or land. Na, is an inseparable particle, which carries into 
all its combinations, in the Algic dialects, the meaning of 
excellent. 

The junction of the Mohawk with the Hudson was called 
TiosARONDA. It describes the mingling of two streams. 

We have thus reached the point to which this first part 
of the Report is limited. 

Before leaving the consideration of the Hudson, and pro- 
ceeding to another field, in which the nomenclature takes 
its character entirely from a diflferent language, the com- 
mittee would invite attention to a generic term for the 
entire valley, which has been found on one of the earliest 
Dutch maps consulted. It is the word To-areyuna. It was 
applied to both its banks, and was supposed, at first, to 
refer to the Highlands. But its etymolog}'^ does not sustain 
this opinion. We have in the particle To the term for 
water; Ar, is the same particle which, in Cataracqua, de- 
notes rgck, and una, the same syllable, which, in Niskayuna, 
means the green vegetation of spring, or foliage, as in 
green corn. By these elements the three grand and cha- 
racteristic features of this valley — namely, its waters, rocks, 
and foliage, are described. It must be borne in mind, that 
the Hudson is south of the Iroquois country, that war excur- 
sions are made in spring when the leaves newly bud, and 
that when the warriors proceeded into this valley on their 
earliest war excursions towards the ocean, every step they 



* Benson's Memoir. 
10* 



114 APPENDIX. 

advanced rendered the spring vegetation more forward and 
enchanting to their eyes. And it is not a matter of wonder, 
that with this foliage hanging, as it did, in many places, 
about the brows of cliffs, in others, towering in the exfo- 
liating tops of the forest, and in all, reflected in the noble 
stream, these images should, with their flexible constructive 
language, have been immediately seized upon and embodied 
in one expressive term. 

As yet no aboriginal name for the Highlands has been 
found. By imparting to the above compound term of 
ToAREYUNA, an adjective form, the poet may, in the mean- 
time, deduce, as applicable to this eminence, the term 
ToARANOc [Toranoc] 

In these examinations of the aboriginal names of the 
Hudson valley, little more has been attempted, than to in- 
vestigate the names of the immediate margin of the river, 
east and west. The interior of the river counties consti- 
tutes a field which demands an amount of time, and means 
of information, which the committee have not possessed.* 
The larger part of these names, which are preserved by 
local tradition, are not to be found on maps, or in books. 
Some of them may, it is believed, be found in the original 
title deeds of families. A portion of such names, for 
streams and other local features, has already been put on 
record, in the reports of land trials and questions of title, 
and is accessible through the volumes of Legal Reports. 
A few of these only are quoted. The elaborate examina- 
tion and description of the county and township boundaries, 
which form an introductory part of the Revised Statutes, 
embrace others. The records of the office of the Surveyor 
General of the State, particularly that portion of them 
which is due to the zeal and assiduity of the late Simeon 
De Witt, are known to embrace numerous details of this 
kind, for the examination of which ample time and oppor- 
tunity are, however, required. And when every other 



* In this report, the portion relative to the names of the Mohawk valley, is 
segregated, and will, it is designed, be revised and reported before the summer 
recess. 



APPENDIX. 113 

source has been mentioned, it will still, perhaps, be true 
that, for the effectual prosecution and completion of the 
enquiry, the Historical Society must look, in a great meas- 
ure, to the interest felt in the subject, and the urbanity and 
intelligence of gentlemen actually resident in the various 
townships, villages, and local precincts. Some aids of this 
kind, small in amount, but valuable in themselves, have 
already been received, which are quoted, in foot notes or 
references. 

Respectfully submitted. 

In behalf of the Committee, 

HENRY R. SCHOOLCRAFT, 

Chairman. 
To Albert Gallatin. 



The following letter was read : 

Chamber op Commerce, ) 
New York, February 6, 1844. ) 

Sir : — At a meeting of the Chamber held this day, the 
following resolution was unanimously adopted : 

" Resolved, That the Secretary be authorized to deposit for 
safe keeping and due preservation, in the Library of the 
New York Historical Society, the full length portraits of 
Lieut. Gov. Colden and General Alexander Hamilton, be- 
longing to this Chamber ; the same to be returned to the 
possession of the Chamber whenever it shall desire to re- 
claim them." 

The portraits referred to in the above resolution, possess 
an interest derived from their antiquity and the historical 
associations connected with the distinguished individuals 
they represent. 

These valuable pictures were saved from the disastrous 
conflagration of December, 1835, and the members of the 
Chamber are desirous to ensure, as far as possible, their 



116 APPENDIX. 

future preservation. I will cause them to be immediately 
removed to the Library of the Society. 
Very respectfully, 
I am, Sir, 

Your obe't serv't, 

PROSPER M. WETMORE, 
Sect'i/. Cham, of Com. 
Hon. Albert Gallatin, President, 

New York Historical Society. 

The paintings above mentioned, V7eve exhibited in the 
Gallery. The full length of Lieut. Gov. Cadwallader Col- 
den, w^as painted by Pratt, in 1771, by order of the Chamber 
of Commerce ; the other, of General Hamilton, was painted 
for the same body shortly after the termination of the Revo- 
lutionary War. The last is a work of much merit — but the 
artist is unknown. These fine pictures were rescued from 
the flames at the great fire in December, 1835, when the 
Exchange, in which they were deposited, was destroyed. 

The Recording Secretary stated that he had been requested 
by Henry Nicoll, Esq. to present, on behalf of the Rev. 
Joseph H. Nichols, of New Haven, a copy and translation 
of the inscription upon the tomb of Richard Nicolls, the 
first English Governor of New York. It is as follows : 

"M.S. 

Optimis parentibus, nunc tumulo conjunctus 

Pietate semper, conjunctissimus 

Hie jacet 

Ricardus Nicolls Francis : ex Margar : Bruce 

Filius. 

Illustrissimo Jacobo, Duci Ebor : a cubiculis intimus 

Anno 1643, relictis Musarum Castris, 

Turmam equestrem contra Rebelles duxit 

Juvenis strenuus atque impiger, — 

Anno 1664, ^Etate jam, et scientia militari. maturus 

In Americam 



APPENDIX. 117 

Septentrionalem, cum imperio missus 

Longam. insulam coeterasque insulas 

Belgis expulsis, vero Domino restituit, 

Provinciam, arcesq: munitissimas 

Heri sui titulis insignavit, 

Et triennio pro preside rexit — 

Academia — Literis .; 

Belle — Virtute 

Aula — Candore animi 

Magistratu — Prudentia 

Celebris. 

Ubique bonis Charus. sibi et negotiis par, 

28 Mail 1672 

Nave praetoria. contra eosdem Belgas 

Fortiter dimicans 

Ictu globi majoris tranfossus, occubuit 

Fratres habuit 
Praeter Gulielmum, praecoci fato defunctum. 

Edwardum et Franciscum — 
Utrumque, copiarum pedestrium Centurionem, 

Qui faedae et servilis Tyrannidis, 

Quas tunc Angliam oppresserit, Impatientes 

Exilio praelecto (si modo regem extorrem sequi, exilium sit) 

Alter Parisiis, alter Haga Comitiis 

Ad caelestem patriam migrarunt." 

At the top of the monument is the following, as a heading 
to the whole : 



wy>/ A cannon-ball 




Translation of the foregoing Inscription. 

" Sacred to Memory, 

Here lies, now united in the tomb with the best of parents, 



118 APPENDIX. 

and always most closely united to them in filial affection, 
Richard Nicolls, son of Francis Nicolls and Margaret Bruce. 
He was a groom of the bedchamber to the most illustrious 
James, the Duke of York. In the year 1643, forsaking the 
seats of the Muses, he led a troop of horse against the 
Rebels, being a youth bold and resolute. In the year 1 664, 
having become ripe in age and military science, he was sent 
out to North America, invested with supreme command, 
and having dispossessed the Dutch, he restored Long Island 
and other islands to their rightful master ; honored the pro- 
vince and its strongest forts by the titles of his liege lord, and 
ruled as Governor for three years, In college distinguished 
in literature, in war renowned for courage ; at the court for 
sincerity of purpose, and in the magistracy, for prudence. 
He was every where beloved by the good, and was fully 
competent to all he undertook. On the 28th of May, 1672, 
while gallantly fighting against the same Dutch, on board 
of the flag-ship, he fell pierced through by a large cannon- 
ball. He had for his brothers, besides William, who per- 
ished by a premature death, Edward and Francis, both of 
them Captains of the Foot, who, impatient of the cruel and 
servile tyranny which at that time oppressed England, hav- 
ing voluntarily gone into exile, (if exile it may be called to 
accompany one's banished sovereign,) departed this world 
for their heavenly country, the former at Paris, the latter at 
the court of the Hague." 

The tomb of Gov. Nicolls, from which the above inscrip- 
tion has been taken, is in the parish church of Ampthill, 
Bedfordshire, England. 



APPENDIX. 119 



MEETING OF THE FIFTH OF MARCH. 



THE PRESIDENT IN THE CHAIR. 



Mr. Schoolcraft, from the Committee on Indian Names, 
reported the following Circular, asking for information on 
the subject of their duties, and the same was ordered to be 
published : 

Rooms op the New York Historical Society, 
University of New York, March 5, 1844. 

Sir , — The undersigned, having been appointed a Com- 
mittee, to prepare a Map of the State, with all the original 
Indian Names, solicit information on this head. It is be- 
lieved that sectional maps, made by the early surveyors, 
exist among family papers, and would be communicated, as 
well as, in some instances, manuscript journals and letters. 
Another source of information, is to be found in the names 
of creeks, rivers, and other boundary marks, in early deeds. 
Tradition in townships, and neighborhoods*, is a third, and 
still fruitful source of preserving these names, the meaning 
of which, may sometimes be yet obtained, from the natives, 
or from interpreters. 

Every year carries to the grave some of those pioneers 
and early settlers, who are best qualified to give the desired 
information, and thus narrows the circle of tradition, at its 
highest source. This Society furnishes a safe and eligible 
repository for all such documents, whether presented or de- 
posited. It is an object of deep interest, with its members, 
to collect and preserve the sonorous and appropriate Indian 
terminology of the State. The Committee will make due 
acknowledgements, in their final report, for all aid in this 
species of research. 



120 APPENDIX. 

Communications maybe made to either of tlie undersigned, 
or under cover, to George Folsom, Esq., the Domestic Cor- 
responding Secretary. 

HENRY R. SCHOOLCRAFT, " 

C. FENNO HOFFMAN, 

S. VERPLANCK, 

WILLIAM L. STONE, > §. 

B. F. BUTLER, 

EDWARD ROBINSON, 

WM. W. CAMPBELL, J 

The Librarian submitted a note on the Eclipse, by pro- 
phesying which Columbus obtained provisions from the 
natives. It had been copied by a gentleman connected with 
the American Legation in Spain, from the MSS. vol. of 
prophecies, relating to the New World, collected by the 
order of Columbus, and preserved in the Columbian Library 
of Seville. The original notes were stated to be in the 
autograph of Columbus himself. 



APPENDIX. 121 



MEETING OF THE FOURTH OF JUNE. 



THE PRESIDENT IN THE CHAIR. 



Mr. John W. Edmonds read the following paper : 
I* 

SOME PASSAGES IN THE LIFE OF GOVERNOR TOMPKINS. 

The writer of this brief sketch imbibed early in life a 
high regard for the character of Governor Tompkins, aris- 
ing not merely from a knowledge of the services he had 
rendered his country, but also from an intimacy which had 
existed between a near relative of his and the Governor, dur- 
ing the whole of the late war with England. And while 
in common with many others, he has had frequent occasion 
to feel and lament the want of a complete history of that 
war, he has especially regretted that thirty years have been 
allowed to pass away without that ample biography of the 
subject of this paper, which his merits and his services so 
eminently demand. 

With thoughts like these running through his mind, he 
has occasionally occupied his leisure in collecting materials 
relating to the public conduct of the Governor, in the hope 
that he might, at some period, be able to essay something 
towards the performance of a task so grateful to him as 
would be a compilation of the biography" of Daniel D. 
Tompkins. 

From the materials thus collected, it is proposed on this 
occasion to make some extracts, rather than attempt the 
more ambitious task of a historical narrative. To under- 
stand these extracts, however, it will be necessary to advert 
briefly to the condition of the country at the period to which 
they relate. 

11 



122 APPENDIX. 

In the year 1814, the aspect of public affairs in this quar- 
ter of the Union, was truly alarming. Our eastern breth- 
ren not only withheld their support, but threatened serious 
resistance to the constitutional arm ; a well appointed and 
veteran army, aided by a strong naval force, was pressing 
upon our Champlain frontier ; the Ontario squadron was in 
danger of attack at Sackett's Harbor, from another com- 
bined land and naval armament ; the lately victorious but 
now suffering army of Niagara was pent up in Fort Erie 
by the British forces in that quarter ; the city of New York 
was menaced with invasion ; the capitol of the Union was 
smoking in ruins ; and to give the deepest shade to the 
gloomy aspect of our affairs, and add to the difficulty of 
their redemption, the national government was literally 
penniless. 

At that momentous and trying crisis, the course of con- 
duct which might be adopted by one, who was a leading 
and influential member of the party then dominant in the 
nation, and who was also the chief magistrate of the largest 
State in the Union, and which was emphatically the seat 
of the war, was a matter of deep interest to the whole 
country. 

Any failure in such a man at such a time, to discharge 
his whole duty ; any timid shrinking from the responsibility 
belonging to his position ; any giving up to party what was 
meant for mankind ; any weakness, either of purpose or 
of action ; any want of energy or decision of character ; 
any listening to the whisperings of private interest, rather 
than to the dictates of an elevated patriotism, might have 
entailed upon the nation consequences so disastrous that 
even our day and generation might sadly say, "the end 
is not yet." To us then who enjoy the exemption from the 
ills, which it requires no very vivid imagination to paint, as 
well as to those who at the time felt the reality of their 
deliverance, the conduct and language of such a man 
cannot be uninteresting. 

Tompkins was first elected governor of this State, in 
1807, at the early age of 33 years. He occupied that post 



APPENDIX. 123 

at the declaration of war in June, 1812, and although he 
had from the beginning, entered heart and soul into the pro- 
secution of it, it was not until the winter of 1813-14, that 
all the energies of his character were called into action, for 
not only was the situation of the country thus critical, but 
he was fated to meet with powerful opposition at home. 
The federal party, which ranked among its members some 
of the most able men in the State, had obtained a majority 
in the House of Assembly, and with it the appointment of 
almost all the officers of State, civil and military. And 
that party differed widely from him in regard to the policy 
to be pursued in that emergency. 

And it was precisely such a state of things, that was 
calculated to bring into play the admirable qualities which 
he possesssed. 

The year 1814, dawned upon our State with gloomy por- 
tents. On the 25th of November, 1813, General Brown 
wrote to Governor Tompkins, dated at Head Quarters, 
French Mills : — 

" We are destitute of military comforts for the sick and 
wounded, and the well have had no bread these three 
days ; but we have beef and pork, and we have faith and 
hope, and we will with the blessing of God, live to see 
more prosperous and glorious days." 

•' I have good reason to believe that the enemy are in 
considerable force near Cornwall." 

On the 6th of December, 1813, General M'Clure wrote 
from Newark, U. C. : 

" I am placed at present in a delicate situation. The 
period for which the militia were drafted will expire in 
three days. There are not more than two hundred regular 
troops here. [To face an enemy consisting of one thousand 
regulars and seven hundred Indians.] My Indian force is 
fluctuating. I have at present about one hundred." " Un- 
less troops are sent here, this side of the strait will probably 
fall into the hands of the enemy." " One thousand men 
would be sufficient to enable me to retain Forts George and 
Niagara during the winter." 



124 APPENDIX. 

On the 12th of December, 1813, the same officer 
wrote : — 

" Since I last had the honor of writing yon, the enemy 
has appeared in considerable force on the opposite shore. * 
* * He is much exasperated and will make a descent on 
the frontier if possible. * * I am not a little apprehen- 
sive that the enemy will take advantage of the exposed 
situation of Buffalo and our shipping there. * * * My 
whole force on this frontier, including the garrison at 
Niagara, does not exceed two hundred and fifty men." 

On the 20th of December, General Hopkins of the militia, 
informed the Governor : — 

"That on the 19th the enemy had crossed over a little 
below Lewiston. They had burned Lewiston and every 
house from that place to within two and a half miles 
of Schlosser ; and the Tuscarora village was also burnt." 

And that officer added : — 

" Unless a sufficient regular force is marched to this fron- 
tier, or the militia ordered out by the commander-in-chief, 
the whole frontier will be a ruin." 

Under the same date. General M'Clure wrote that the 
enemy were " massacreing and laying waste the whole 
country." 

A letter from a private source at Canandaigua, dated 23d 
December, begins with the melancholy detail : — 

" Before you receive this, you will have heard the most 
distressing news from the Niagara frontier. Fort Niagara 
taken and all in it put to death. Lewiston, Schlosser and 
Manchester burnt, and very many citizens of all classes 
murdered." 

On the 26th of December, Mr. J. C. Spencer wrote : — 

" Our frontier is dreadfully exposed, the enemy is full of 
indignation, our brethren are flying in every direction, and 
to complete the picture, the militia will not serve under 
General M'Clure, or if they do, it will be with the utmost 
reluctance." 

" There are but two ways of saving this frontier from 
destruction. The one is for yourself personally to come out 



APPENDIX. 125 

with all the force you can collect, drive the enemy to Cana- 
da, pursue them as far as they will go and cut them to 
pieces. Governor Shelby's example is before you ; the crisis 
is greater than that which called him out. 

" If this cannot be done, there is still another course ; let 
a man fit for the station, and with popular talents, be ap- 
pointed to the command of this station. Peter B. Porter is 
the man, and the only one. If he could be appointed a 
Major General (which he could not be without the consent 
of the council of appointment) M'Clure's feelings would 
be saved, and the service benefited beyond measure." 

On the 2Gth December, the Secretary of War informed 
the Governor that the defence of the Niagara frontier must 
depend on the militia of the West ; and that the force at 
Sackett's Harbor, French Mills and at Plattsburgh, was at 
neither point more than was wanted, and could not move. 

On the 30th December, General Hall who had assumed 
the command of the Niagara frontier wrote to the Governor 
in the following desponding terms : 

" This frontier is wholly desolate. The British crossed 
over, supported by a strong body of Indians, at a little before 
day this morning, near Black Rock. They were met by 
militia under my command with spirit, but overpowered by 
the numbers and discipline of the enemy, the militia gave 
way and fled on every side. Every attempt to rally them was 
ineffectual, their purpose was obtained, and the flourishing 
village of Buffalo is laid in ruins. The Niagara frontier 
now lies open and naked to our enemies." 

On the 5th of January, 1814, the Governor was informed 
that Sag Harbor at the other end of the State, was exposed 
from the fact that the militia stationed there were about 
returning home. 

On the 7th of January, General Hall wrote from Buffalo, 
that the deficiency of arms and ammunition would not 
allow him to arm the militia called out to protect the fron- 
tier. 

General M'Clure of the New- York militia, in December, 
1813, was in command on the Niagara frontier. In the 
11* 



126 APPENDIX. 

early part of that month, he made an excursion into the 
interior of Upper Canada, with a view of giving confidence 
to the inhabitants that we had possession of the country. 
He had with him about 1200 militia and a regular detach- 
ment of artillerists. He ascertained that the enemy were 
near him consisting of 1000 regulars and 700 Indians, and 
he returned. 

A change soon came over that scene. By the 20th of that 
month, that General had abandoned Fort George, had burn- 
ed Newark, and had crossed over to the American shore, 
and the enemy in great force had invaded our country at 
Lewiston. They took Fort Niagara by surprise, found its 
gates open and its commanding officer was with his family 
at some distance from the fort; and before the 1st day of 
January, that frontier was wholly desolate, Buffalo was in 
ruins, and our people were flying in all directions. 

The detail given by the commanding general must have 
been harrowing indeed to one of Governor Tompkins' tem- 
perament. It cannot be uninteresting to read it. The 
despatch is dated 

"Head Quarters, Niagara Frontier, ) 
January 6, 1814. ) 

" The confusion into which every thing was thrown by the 
events of the 30th December, and the imperious necessity 
of taking precautionary measures against the advances of 
the enemy, put it out of my power to furnish at an earlier 
period a detailed account of the operations on this frontier, 
during my hitherto unfortunate and embarrassing com- 
mand. Add to this the extreme difficulty of collecting 
authentic facts relative to our loss since the forces, under 
my command, were of that multiform description which 
they necessarily were, being composed almost wholly of 
volunteer militia and exempts, hastily and confusedly as- 
sembled in the moment of alarm, and dissipated by the 
events of a battle. 

"The storming of Fort Niagara and the burning of Lew- 
iston, presaging further devastation, threw tliis whole 
country into the utmost agitation. On the moment, and with- 



APPENDIX. 127 

out any previous preparation, I hastened to Batavia, with a 
view to take such measures as might be in my power to 
repel the enemy and protect the frontier. 

" I hastily collected from the militia and volunteers of 
Genesee county, and the brigade of Gen. Wadsworth in 
Ontario, a considerable force. But generally deficient in 
arms and ammunition, and the necessary conveniences of 
a camp. 

"In the evening of the 22d of December, Gen. M'Clure, with 
the Regulars under the command of Major Riddle, arrived 
in Batavia, and on the 23d signified his desire that I would 
take command during this moment of general alarm. I 
accordingly proceeded in the best manner in my power to 
organize the forces then in Batavia, and with the arms and 
ammunition collected from different sections of the country, 
and what little could be procured from the Arsenals of 
Canandaigua and Batavia, I was able to get on the march 
on the 25th, for Lewiston, a body of infantry 1 50 strong, 
supported by one company of cavalry, with orders to join a 
corps of militia, said to be 200 men, at Forsyth's, on the 
Ridge Road, fifteen miles east from Lewiston — to collect 
and save all the ammunition in his power, which was then 
dispersed on the road and in different parts of the country 
* * * and if practicable, to effect a junction with the 
main force at Buffalo, by the way of Manchester, Schlosser, 
and thence up the river to Black Rock, leaving as a reserve 
the corps under Colonel Acheson, at their station, near 
Lewiston. 

" I then ordered the remainder of the troops to Buffalo. 
On the morning of the 25th I proceeded to Buffalo. I 
arrived on the morning of the 26th, and there found a con- 
siderable body of irregular troops, of various descriptions, 
disorganized and confused. Every thing wore the appear- 
ance of consternation and dismay." 

" On the 27th I ordered a review of all the troops under 
my command, when I found my numerical force to be as 
follows : — 



128 APPENDIX. 

At Buffalo, 129 Cavalry and Mounted Volunteers, 

433 Exempts and Volunteers, 

136 Buffalo Militia, 

97 Canadian Refugees, 

' 382 Genesee Militia. 

At Black Rock, 380 Militia, 

37 Mounted Infantry, 

83 Indians, and one field piece, with 

25 Men — making a numerical 



force of 1702 INlen. 

Add to this a Regiment of 300 militia from Chatauque, 
which arrived on the 29th, and swelled the force to 2000 ; 
which was reduced on the morning of the alarm to less 
than 1200; and so deficient were the supplies of ammuni- 
tion, that a greater part of the cartridges for one Regiment 
were made and distributed after the Regiment was paraded 
on the morning of the battle." 

The despatch proceeds : — 

" The movements of the enemy already indicated their 
intention of attacking Buffalo, or Black Rock, which left 
me not a moment from the arduous duty of preparing the 
most effective means in my power for meeting the enemy 
with the crude force under my command. On the 28th I 
was so fortunate as to procure information as to the ene- 
my's movements, from a citizen who made his escape from 
Canada. 

"In the evening of the 29th, at about 12 o'clock, I received 
information that our horse patrol had been fired on a short 
distance below Conjokatie's creek, and one mile below 
Black Rock, Lieut. Boughton, an enterprising and brave 
officer, had his horse shot under him. The enemy advanced 
and took possession of the Sailor's battery, near the creek. 
The troops were immediately paraded. 

I was yet uncertain at what point the enemy would at- 
tack me. I was apprehensive he designed to make a 
feigned attack below Black Rock, for the pm-pose of draw- 
ing off my force from Buffalo preparatory to landing above 



APPKNDIX. 129 

the village, intending thereby to take it by surprise. At 
the same time being anxious to anticipate his landing, and 
meet him at the water's edge, I ordered the troops at the 
Rock to attack the enemy and dislodge him from the bat- 
tery, and drive him to his boats. The attempt failed, 
through the confusion into which the militia were thrown 
on the first fire of the enemy. They dispersed and were 
not again embodied during the day. I then ordered the 
corps, under Major Adams and Col. Chapin, to make the 
attack. This was attended with no better effect. The 
men were thrown into confusion by the enemy's fire, and 
after skirmishing a short time, fled, and were not again 
embodied during the day. I then ordered Colonel Blakeley 
to attack, and at the same time put the rest of my troops in 
motion for the same point and proceeded to Black Rock. 
On approaching I discovered a detachment of the enemy's 
boats crossing to our shore. The day was now beginning 
to dawn, I immediately directed Col. Blakeley to attack the 
enemy's centre at the water's edge instead of his left. 

" I now became satisfied of the enemy's intention, which 
was as follows : — His left, composed of 800 Regulars and 
150 or 200 Indians, were disposed below Conjokatie's creek, 
and had been landed under cover of the night. With this 
force he designed to out flank our right and cut off our re- 
treat. With his centre, consisting of 400 Royal Scots, the 
battle commenced. His right, which was purposely weak, 
was landed near our main battery, under cover of a high 
bank, and was merely to divert our force from his main 
attack. The whole under the command of Lieut. Gen. 
Drummond, conducted to the attack by Maj. Gen. Riall. 

" I therefore ordered his left, which was wheeling upon our 
right, to be attacked by the Indians and Canadian volun- 
teers ; at the same time I posted a regiment at a battery as 
a reserve. 

" The attack was begun by a fire from our six pounders 
below Gen. Porter's house, and one 24 and 2 twelves at the 
battery. At the same time the enemy opened a heavy fire 
from their batteries on the other side of the river, of shells, 



130 APPENDIX. 

hot shot and balls. Col. Blakeley's regiment were regu- 
larly in line, together with detached bodies from other 
corps, amounting to about 600. These few brave men 
began the attack with musketry, upon the enemy in their 
boats, and poured upon them a most destructive fire. 
Every inch was disputed with the steady coolness of vete- 
rans, and at the expense of many valuable lives." 

" Perceiving that the Indians were offering no assistance, 
and that our right was endangered by the enemy's left, I 
ordered the reserve to attack the enemy in flank on our 
right, but terror had dissipated this corps, and but few of 
them could be rallied and brought to the attack. 

" The defection of the Indians and my reserve, and the loss 
of the services of my mounted men, left the forces engaged 
exposed to the enemy's fire in front and flank. After stand- 
ing their ground about half an hour, opposed to veteran 
and disciplined troops, overwhelmed by numbers and nearly 
surrounded, a retreat became necessary. 

" I made every effort to rally the troops, with a view to 
renew the attack on the enemy's approach to Buffalo, but in 
vain. With militia retreat becomes a ffight, and a battle 
once ended, the army is dissipated. 

" Deserted by my principal force, I fell back that night to 
Eleven Mile creek, and was forced to leave the flourishing 
villages of Buffalo and Black Rock a prey to the enemy, 
which they have pillaged and laid waste. At the Eleven 
Mile creek I collected between 2 and 300, who remained 
faithful to the country. With those I preserved the best 
show of defence in my power, to cover the fleeing inhabi- 
tants and check the advances of the enemy." 

Such is the account of the attack upon and devastation 
of our western frontier, which spread sorrow and anxiety 
through the land. 

James Wadsworth, on the 6th of January, wrote : — 

" Major Mallory, of the Canada volunteers, has in effect 
the command of oar frontiers. In fact the consternation of 
the militia is so great that they cannot be reduced to tolera- 
ble order for some time. A hundred Regulars and fifty 



APPENDIX. 131 

Indians would now march to Batavia without serious 
opposition. The frontier is dependant for its safety on 
the clemency of the English, Butler's Rangers, and the 
Indians," 

On the 20th of January, 1814, General Wilkinson wrote 
from Waterford : — 

" The enemy are weakening their forts in the neighbor- 
hood of Montreal, with the intention to strengthen those to 
the westward. This circumstance, and the exposed situ- 
ation of Sackett's Harbor, induces me to request that you 
may be pleased to order to that place, with as little delay 
as possible, a reinforcement of 1000 militia or volunteers." 

On the 17th February, General Hall wrote from the 
Niagara frontier : — 

" The enemy are undoubtedly in considerable force near 
the frontier, and adequate security cannot be afforded with- 
out considerable addition to the number now in service." 

On the 14th April, 1814, General Gaines, from Sackett's 
Harbor, informed the Governor that " the enemy had fitted 
out his old fleet, with a considerable number of small craft, 
and had them lying off in the stream, waiting for a favor- 
able wind to sail for that port with 3000 men." 

On the same day Commodore Chauncey communicated 
the same information, and added : " I have no doubt that 
the enemy mean to make a desperate push at this place, 
while it is left so weak." 

General Porter, on the 27th March, apprised the Gover- 
nor "that apprehensions were entertained for the safety of 
the village at the mouth of the Genesee, where there was a 
large deposit of public provisions." 

He was also informed by letter of the 29th March that 
" Sag Harbor was in imminent danger of invasion." 

On the 5th April, he was informed by General Wilkinson, 
that there were considerable magazines of provisions and 
stores at Vergennes and Whitehall, where we had no military 
force, and he was not able to spare any for the protection 
of those places. 

On the 1 5th April, the Secretary of War wrote that there 



1 32 APPENDIX. 

was reason to believe that the enemy meditated an attack 
on Sackett's Harbor. 

Without, iiowever, occupying any more time with these 
details, it will be sufficient to know that our Government 
had good reason to believe that a combined attack would 
be made upon the whole of our northern frontier, and upon 
New York in the south, in the hope of being able, by form- 
ing a communication by means of the Hudson river, to 
isolate the Eastern States from the rest of the Union. 

Many are yet living, perhaps some now hear me, who 
remember full well the anxiety with which this crisis in 
our affairs was regarded by every true patriot. There are 
but few, however, who can fully appreciate the intensity of 
feeling with which Gov. Tompkins regarded it. Urged to 
unwonted efforts by every consideration of duty and patriot- 
ism, called upon by the General Government in most earnest 
appeals for men and money, and incited by his fellow citi- 
zens to exert himself to meet all the emergencies and pecu- 
niary difficulties with which we were pressed, even at the 
hazard of ruining himself, he was eqtial to the occasion. 

In answer to the representations of General Gaines and 
Commodore Chauncey, as to the danger threatened to 
Sackett's Harbor, he wrote on the 17th April that he had 
by return of the express " directed the officers commanding 
the militia in Jefferson, Lewis and Oneida counties to com- 
ply, promptly and without waiting for further orders, with 
any requisition which might be made by the commanding 
officer at Sackett's Harbor, and had advised General Martin 
of Lewis, and the senior officer of Jefferson to repair imme- 
diately to the harbor and receive advice, instructions and 
orders in person." 

He also informed those officers that " all the precautions 
which his authority and resources warranted, had been 
taken with respect to Oswego ;" that he had " communi- 
cated by express to the Generals of Madison, Oneida, Onon- 
daga, Cortland and Cayuga counties his apprehensions for 
the safety of the village and port of Oswego, and directed 
them to be prepared for the event." 

Simultaneous with these efforts at the north, he directed 



APPENDIX. 133 

his attention to our eastern border. The following letter 
from him to the Secretary of War, under date 7th May, 
1814, will show the precautions he adopted in that quarter: 

" Sir, — Your communication of the 28th April did not 
come to hand until yesterday, on account of my absence 
from town. 

" Previously to the receipt of your requisition for Sackett's 
Harbor, the general officers of militia in Jefferson and 
Lewis counties had been directed to repair in person to the 
Harbor, and if an attack of that port was apprehended, to 
receive and immediately comply with any requisition which 
the commanding officer might think proper to make. 

" The militia generals have reported, that by the time of 
their arrival at the Harbor the alarm had subsided, and 
that no militia were or would be called for the present. 

" The communication which I received from General Wil- 
kinson apprised me of his apprehensions, that the enemy 
would be in force on Lake Champlain before M'Donough 
would be in readiness to meet him, and that an attempt 
would probably be made to destroy our flotilla in dock, and 
the public property at Whitehall. 

" I deemed it prudent to send an express with that infor- 
mation, and with instructions to the Commandant of the 
militia of Washington county, to hold themselves in readi- 
ness. Generals De Ridder and Pettit, with the Command- 
ants of the regiments of militia nearest to Whitehall, visited 
the place, and went a considerable distance down the Lake 
to ascertain the best positions for annoying an enemy in his 
approach to Whitehall, and made arrangements for obtain- 
ing particularly, the earliest information of his advance to 
the upper part of the Lake. The Brigadiers have likewise 
ordered three regiments to be held in readiness to march at 
a moments warning. 

" No militia have, however, yet been ordered into service 
in that quarter, nor will there be, unless the enemy's flotilla 
should ascend the lake as far as Crown Point." 

To prepare for action on the Niagara frontier, he des- 
patched one of his Aids to Buffalo with very plenary powers. 
12 



134 APPENDIX. 

" You will please to repair," (so runs his letter of instruc- 
tions to Colonel Yates,) to the army at Buffalo, and if, upon 
consultation with Major General Brown, Brigadier General 
Porter and others, whom you may suppose capable of giving 
prudent advice in the premises, it shall be proper and neces- 
sary, you will issue, in my name and as my aid, a general 
order, calling out, en masse, or in detachments such portion 
of the militia west of Utica as may be required by Major 
General Brown." 

" You are to consider yourself vested with full and entire 
discretion in relation to the premises, and to exercise all 
needful authority to carry the object of this order into full 
and complete effect. You may return so soon as in your 
judgment your longer presence on the Niagara frontier 
shall have become unnecessary." 

He wrote to General Brown as follows : — 

Albany, August 13th, 1814. 

" Dear Sir — My absence from this city, prevented my 
receiving your letter of the 1st instant, until recently. The 
alarm which exists at New York compels me to devote at- 
tention to that place, and upon the requisition of the Presi- 
dent, I am getting out 3000 troops from the middle district ; 
they rendezvous on Thursday, and I am well aware that 
unless I accompany them personally and see to their organi- 
zation, accommodation and equipment at New York, some 
pretext will be seized for flying off in a tangent. Were it 
not for the indispensable necessity of personal attention to 
this duty, 1 should visit you at Buffalo. 

" Colonel Yates, who will present this communication, 
is one of my Aids. He is instructed, after consulting 
w^ith you, to issue any order for the assemblage of the mili- 
tia, for which you may issue a requisition, and to call them 
out en masse, or by detachments, as may be most expedient. 
He is also empowered to direct the superintendents of State 
Arsenals to supply the militia to be called out, with equip- 
ments, so far as our resources will enable them. 

" Your requisition on General Hall receives my approba- 



APPENDIX. 135 

tion, and his compliance I hope will be prompt and satisfac- 
tory. 

" With respect to the increase of General Porter's corps, 
I do not well know what to say. Had I the power to enlarge 
their allowance by adding to the pay of eight dollars per 
month, about four dollars and fifty cents in lieu of clothing, 
it would certainly have a benign influence ; for, it is not to 
be denied that the patriotism of too many of our citizens is 
of the pound, shilling and pence kind ; and that avarice 
has become with too many, the master passion, which, like 
Aaron's rod, swallows up all the rest. 

" We are considerably embarrassed for equipments by 
reason of the wanton destruction and embezzlement of 
public property on the Niagara frontier, by those to whom 
it was entrusted for the defence of their country, indeed of 
their own firesides ; and I have therefore, long since been 
convinced that a more economical and at the same time a 
more efficient and subordinate corps than drafted militia is 
indispensable. For two years I have endeavored to per- 
suade the Legislature to organize a substitute for militia, 
but they have hitherto thwarted my views. 

" The President has now convened Congress, and it is not 
improbable that I may call our Legislature about the same 
time. Tliis however must he inter nos. The State authori- 
ties cannot raise troops without the assent of Congress ; and 
to have brought the Legislature together at a time when 
that assent could not be obtained would have left the patri- 
otic Legislature lately elected, no alternative but to call out 
large bodies of militia and to waste the resources of the 
State in paying expenses disproportionate to the services. 

I wish you to advise Colonel Yates as to the exercise of 
the discretion and power vested in him, which are very 
ample. 

With high consideration and esteem, 
I have the honor to be Sir, 

Your ob't ser't, 

DANIEL D. TOMPKINS. 

Major General Jacob Brown. 



136 APPENDIX. 

Not content with a mere technical discharge of his duties, 
he seems to have sought out with earnest zeal, every means 
of defending the country. On the 13th of August, he wrote 
to De Witt Clinton, in behalf of the Committee of defence, 
apprising him of his having ordered from Albany, for the 
defence of the city, certain munitions of war, and also that 
at West Point, and at the Navy Yard at the Wallabout, 
there were other articles of the kind, and he adds : 

" It is a matter of the utmost importance, both for the 
General Government and the State of New York, to estab- 
lish a Cannon Foundry on the Hudson, above the Highlands. 
The organization of a company for that purpose is on foot. 
I have this day addressed to Oliver Wolcott, of that Com- 
pany, a communication upon the subject, and beg leave to 
recommend to the Corporation of New York to patronize 
the establishment by a subscription of $10,000. A cannon 
foundry is of more vital importance both to the City of New 
York, to our Northern and Western frontiers, and to the 
State at large, than is generally imagined." 

" Previously to my departure from New York, I had the 
honor to address to the Secretary of the Navy, a communi- 
cation soliciting the control of a portion of the cannon at 
the Navy Yard, and promising to mount them immediately 
at State expense. The moment an answer is received, it 
shall be communicated for the information of the Committee 
of defence." 

The prompt and decided measures adopted by the Gover- 
nor, in the emergency presented by the campaign of 1814, 
will be further learned from others of his letters written at 
the same time. 

On the 16th of August, he wrote to the Governor of New 
Jersey. 

" Dear Sir, — I should have visited Newark when I was last 
at the seaboard, had I not learned from Mr. Riggs, that you 
were at Trenton. I am extremely anxious for an interview, 
and shall go to New York on Thursday of this week, where 
I may remain for a week at least. If, during that time, 
you should be 9.t Newark, or at any other part of New 



APPENDIX. 137 

Jersey, within thirty miles of New York, and will have the 
goodness to acquaint me with it by a line, I shall have the 
honor of calling upon you." 

In addition to the promptitude with which he responded 
to every call for aid in defence of our whole line of frontier, 
he displayed equal energy in preparing the City of New 
York to resist an attack from forces which were then un- 
questionably aimed at this Port, but which were afterwards 
directed to New Orleans by the very efficient means which 
were taken here to meet them. 

His correspondence at this period, evinces not merely the 
ardor of his patriotism and a comprehensiveness of mind 
equal to all the difficulties of the crisis, but a minute atten- 
tion to detail, and a regard for the feelings and comforts of 
his fellow citizens, which commends his example to us as 
one worthy of all imitation. 

To read all his correspondence at this important era, 
though very interesting in itself, would swell this paper far 
beyond reasonable bounds. We must therefore content 
ourselves on this occasion, with such extracts only as will 
tend to give us just conceptions of the task which devolved 
upon him and the manner in which he performed it. 

In August, 1814, he repaired to New York to superintend 
in person the measures of defence. On the 27th of August 
he wrote to the General commanding the forces in this dis- 
trict, as follows : — 

*' The alarming state of affairs renders it indispensably 
necessary that an immediate understanding should exist 
between yourself, the Commodore and myself with respect 
to the order of battle, or system of operations to be pur- 
sued in the event of an attack upon this city. It is the more 
necessary that I should in particular be made acquainted 
with it beforehand, because the collection of additional 
forces from abroad, and my duty to the citizens of the west- 
ern and northern frontiers may call me occasionally from 
the city, and were I to arrive at the moment of an attack, 
and there were no previously digested plan or order of 
battle, the services of any militia which I might command, 
12* 



138 APPENDIX. 

would of course be less important and beneficial than they 
might otherwise be. May I therefore request that you will 
arrange and digest, either separately or in concert with 
Commodore Decatur, and acquaint me with the plans of 
operation or order of battle proposed, upon the several 
hypotheses of attack through the sound, either on the West- 
chester or Long Island side — of a landing upon any part of 
the south side of Long Island, or of the approach of the 
enemy by the way of the Hook, or of a simultaneous at- 
tack in two or more directions. 

" The militia of Rockland, Westchester, Queens, Kings, 
New York and Richmond, together with such as I may be 
able to get down seasonably from above the Highlands, and 
those now in service, are the only corps of the militia of this 
State that I shall be able to furnish at short warning. 

" Governor Pennington informs me that the militia of 
Essex and the adjacent counties will be ordered by him to 
obey your requisitions promptly, without waiting for the 
orders to pass through him, and that upon hearing of an 
alarm he will repair immediately to that part of his State 
nearest the harbor of New York, to co-operate in its 
defence." 

On the 29th of August he informed the Corporation of this 
city that he had it in contemplation to assemble immediately, 
an additional number of ten thousand militia at this place ; 
and on the 15th September he communicated to the Com- 
manding General a statement of the force which he had 
brought into the field. 

On Staten Island he had - - - - 2164 

At Brooklyn, 4300 

On Barn Island, 1600 

At Harlem Heights, . . - . 3500 

In New York City, 4000 



Total, 15,564 

The extent of the services rendered by him, is however, 
best detailed in his own unpretending language. In a letter 



APPENDIX. 139 

to Mr. Monroe, then Secretary of war, of the 29th of Sep- 
tember, he says : — 

" The measures which you suggest had been in part anti- 
cipated. So early as the 16th of August the Generals of 
militia in the counties of Montgomery, Herkimer, Otsego, 
Oneida, Madison, Lewis, Jefferson and St. Lawrence, had 
been instructed by me to comply instantly, without waiting 
for orders to pass through me, with any requisition that 
might come from your commanding officer at Sackett's 
Harbor. 

" They have accordingly reinforced the harbor occasion- 
ally, and a considerable body of militia is now in service 
there. One of my Aids, (Washington Irving) is now on his 
way to the harbor with ample powers to supply any addi- 
tional force, which upon consultation with the commanding 
officer there may be thought needful for the safety of the 
Harbor. 

" For the defence of the City of New York, I have exerted 
myself to the utmost. Full fifteen thousand of the militia 
of this State and one thousand sea-fencibles, organized under 
State authority, are now in service in the third military 
district. 

" These, with Commodore Decatur's command, the Regu- 
lars, Sea-fencibles of the United States, Jersey militia, corps 
of exempts and neighboring militia kept in reserve, will, if 
well disciplined and commanded, be adequate to the defence 
of New York. 

" So soon as I learned that General Brown's army had 
retrograded to Erie, Colonel Yates, one of my Aids, repaired 
immediately to that frontier with plenary powers to give 
any assistance with mililia that might be required. The 
number proposed by General Brown has been furnished, 
and he writes me that in the recent sortie they greatly dis- 
tinguished themselves. 

" 1 was for a time in great apprehension for the safety of 
our northern frontier. The withdrawal of General Izzard's 
army from that quarter, was an entire secret to me until 
some days after he was on the march. 



140 APPENDIX. 

" Major General Mooers had but a short time before, sent 
me a copy of a correspondence between him and General 
Izzard, in which the latter declined the acceptance of Gen- 
eral M's. offer to reinforce him with militia. I therefore 
directed my whole attention to New York, and was not ap- 
prized of the necessity of strengthening Plattsburgh mitil it 
was too late." 

" Nearly twenty-five thousand of the militia of the State 
are now in the service of the United States. It is a hercu- 
lean task, at the busy season of the year, and without funds 
in the hands of any of your Quarter-masters and without 
any authority or control over the District Departments, to 
get up, transport and equip, at various and remote points, 
so large a body of troops." 

" Permit me to say that every exertion will be made on 
my part to comply with the future requisitions of the National 
Government, to the full extent of my authority and 
resources." 

This letter was in answer to one from Mr. Monroe, in 
which, in brief and emphatic language he announced to Gov. 
Tompkins : — 

"General M'Clure, at Plattsburg, is in danger from a 
superior force marching against him, and General Brown 
is alike exposed to imminent danger." 

" It is the object of the enemy to overwhelm us this 
campaign, and I have satisfactory reason to believe that 
they indulge the presumptuous hope of penetrating by the 
Lakes, by Albany, to the city of New York. 

*' A vigorous and manly exertion is therefore peculiarly 
necessary on your part." 

Governor Tompkins had well said in his reply that the 
measures suggested had been in part anticipated, for before 
this letter reached its destination, the battle of Plattsburgh 
had been fought by General M'Comb and the enemy were 
in full retreat, and General Brown had made his sortie from 
Fort Erie, in which the enemy's batteries were destroyed 
and 800 of their men left on the field. In both instances 
the militia called out by the Governor behaved extremely 



APPENDIX. 141 

well, and in the sortie drew from General Brown the strong 
expression — " The militia of New- York behaved gallantly 
and were of immense importance." 

So great and beneficial was the influence of the prompt 
and energetic measures of the Governor, that in the course 
of that year he was tendered the situation of Secretary of 
State by Mr. Madison, which he declined. That he richly 
deserved the promotion tendered him all would concede, 
and that he had fairly earned the comparative exemption 
from toil and anxiety which the new place would have 
afforded him was equally apparent. But that he would so 
far consult his own ease and interest as to abandon the po- 
sition in which he then stood, as laborious and responsible 
as it was honorable, no one expected. Instead of abandon- 
ing or even attempting to lessen the burdens then resting 
upon him, he cheerfully assumed more. 

On the 14th October, 1814, the command of the third 
military district was entrusted to him by the President, and 
from that time until he was relieved in April following, he 
discharged all the duties of that station, in addition to those 
of Chief Magistrate of this State. 

The arduous nature of these manifold duties can only be 
faintly imagined by us, who stand at this distance from the 
scene, unless we could be fortunate enough to read all his 
correspondence in connection with an intimate knowledge 
of the history of the period. 

We should then observe that besides the ordinary duties 
of Chief Magistrate, (which of themselves in times of peace 
have been too grievous a burden for some of the incum- 
bents to bear gracefully and well,) he had imposed on him 
all the anxieties growing out of the alarming state of pub- 
lic afl'airs — all the labor and perplexity of calling into 
service and organizing for efficient action 25,000 militia at 
several points, and of putting into form and order the chaos 
which our inexperience had created in the Pay, Quarter- 
Master and Commissary departments — the responsibility of 
raising large sums of money for the national government 



14S APPENDIX. 

which was almost penniless — the fatigue of personal com- 
mand — rendered infinitely perplexing by the constant occur- 
rence of paltry questions and disputes about rank and 
precedence, among the inexperienced yet fiery spirits he had 
awakened to action. 

The effect produced upon himself and his friends by these 
Herculean labors, as he himself justly calls them, is best 
learned from an anonymous letter which he received, and 
which I cannot forbear transcribing. It has no date, but 
must have been received by him about the 1st September, 
1814, and is evidently from one of a sect who do not be- 
lieve much in wars and bloodshed. It reads as follows : 

" Very dear friend, — I am so troubled for the public good, 
that to keep silence would implicate me to myself in the 
charge of treason. 

" God has raised thee up and appointed thee to be the 
first magistrate of a great and affectionate people, and in 
thy official capacity imposes upon thee very complicated 
and arduous duties. But he has not given thee sinews of 
iron nor joints of brass. Thy constitution and strength are 
but what belong to a common man. 

" When Moses was told by one ' Thou wilt surely wear 
away, for this thing is too heavy for thee,' he hearkened to 
the counsel and took means to lessen his excessive labors. 
And when King David was advised that his safety was of 
greater consequence than the lives of 10,000 of his subjects, 
he modestly acquiesced. How intimately the salus populi is 
connected with thy health and life, would be presumption 
in mere man to undertake to determine. 

" But I speak safely when I say that the perplexing cares, 
the excessive fatigues, and common abstinence which every 
returning day brings upon thee, do greatly endanger thy 
health and of consequence thy life, and we need no spirit of 
inspiration to tell us, respected friend, that the loss of one 
or both would at the present fearful crisis be most deplora- 
ble to the community. For Heaven's sake then be admon- 



APPENDIX. 143 

ished by an obscure citizen who has thy personal good and 
the welfare of our common country near at heart, so to 
moderate and lessen thy toil and labor as to indulge in 
necessary recreation, to take thine ordinary meals in regu- 
larity, and to give nature its required rest in the common 
season of sleep. Patriotism does not demand of thee the 
sacrifice thou art making. Duty forbids it. It is common 
language in t\e city — the Governor cannot bear his fa- 
tigue — the Governor will bring sickness upon himself, 
&c. &c. 

" Pardon, respected friend, this obtrusion of an anxious 
fellow-citizen and a cordial 

" WELL WISHER. 

" Governor Tompkins." 

His toil and anxieties were greatly increased by the fact 
that one branch of the legislature, and the council of ap- 
pointment, were during the session of 1813-14, controlled 
by his political opponents : by the panic which spread over 
the whole country by the burning of Washington in August 
of that year, and by an extra session of the legislature 
called in the following month of September. 

It seemed however that he grew with the emergency, and 
in proportion to the necessity for their exercise there sprang 
up in him powers of mind, which he was himself scarcely 
conscious of possessing. And it is delightful to witness 
the ease with which he carried the burden imposed upon 
him, the good and kindly nature which pervaded his con- 
duct, and the abiding confidence he had in the justice of 
our cause and its ultimate triumph. 

He could be severe, however, when occasion required it. 
In answer to the Colonel of a Regiment who complained of 
some fancied or real slight, he wrote : — 

" I became acquainted with the approach of Sir George 
Prevost towards Plattsburgh, and therefore directed your 
detached battalion to march immediately in that direction. 
You came instantly to Albany, stated your repugnance to 
going to Plattsburgh, and entreated me to excuse you from 



144 APPENDIX. 

it, and to let Major Yale take the command of the Bat- 
talion. I thought proper to comply with your request, be- 
cause I believed that a commanding officer who was so 
violently opposed, as you seemed to be, to march to the 
defence of the nearest frontier, w^here the greatest possible 
danger existed, and where the fairest opportunity was 
afforded of distinguishing himself, could not be of much 
importance on the expedition." .« 

On the occasion of one of his visits to Albany, during that 
summer, it seems he left one of his aids in this city, charged 
with somewhat plenary powers to act in his absence. 

On the 29th of September that aid wrote him : — 

" Dear Sir, — I have entered on the duties of the execu- 
tive department, which I have sustained with becoming 
dignity and moderation. I have made sundry requisitions, 
&c., and among others a requisition in favor of Mr. Ed- 
monds for $107,000. 

" The enclosed diary will show what has been done. 

" I am out of commissions, and pray you to forward me 
some of all kinds, signed. 

" With most sincere attachment, 

" Your friend. 



R. M." 



To which the Governor made this reply : — 



"Albany, September 30th, 1814. 

"Dear Sir, — I have just received your letter, acquainting 
me ' with your having entered on the duties of the Execu- 
tive with dignity and moderation.' You must permit me, 
however, to say, that when the next sentence met my eyes, I 
thought you were a pretty bold beginner. 

" The troops not having been in service two months, there 
could have been no immediate actual necessity for the sum 
of 107,000 dollars. Besides, Mr. Edmonds had written me 
a letter, wishing me to ascertain, before I left town, through 
what channel he \vas to obtain the Corporation funds to 
pay the troops, as he understood the Corporation Commit- 
tee, which had been despatched to Washington to make 



APPENDIX. 145 

arrangements with the General Government, as to the man- 
ner of and vouchers for the advances which were to be 
made by the Corporation upon the credit of the General 
Government, had returned. He, therefore, did not expect 
they were to be obtained through me. 

" When the committee returned, their report contained an 
expression that the advances were to be made for the 
General Government, to be refunded by the state of New 
York, in the first instance, which was to be reimbursed, 
therefore, by the United States. As the state was not a 
party to the arrangement, and had made no agreement to 
be the go-between, I applied to the Mayor, who being per- 
fectly convinced of the impropriety of implicating the state 
of New York in an arrangement to which it was not a 
party, and of the misunderstanding it might thereafter 
create, sent for the committee, and had the report altered in 
my presence, so as to read that the Militia were to be paid 
by the Corporation, who were to be reimbursed by the 
General Government." 

*' I have likewise informed the Legislature by message, 
that the Corporation were to pay the Militia in service at 
New York, upon the credit of the General Government. 
Now, after all this, immediately after I left town, without 
consultation with, or instructions or authority from me, 
without any law therefore, and without any immediate 
necessity for it, that you should have signed a requisition, 
pledging the credit of the state for so large a sum as 
107,000 dollars, I acknowledge surprised me. 1 should not 
have done it myself had I been in New York, and I here men- 
tion it as a general rule for your future government, that I 
never delegate executive authority of such magnitude and 
responsibility. I would, therefore, suggest the propriety of 
your requesting General Edmonds, if he shall have received 
it, to refund the money to the Comptroller of the Corpora- 
tion and take up your requisition. 

" By a reference to the Mayor, you will learn upon whose 
requisitions the pay for the troops is to be advanced, ac- 
cording to the agreement which may have been made by 
13 



146 APPENDIX. 

Messrs. Bracket & King; and General Edmonds must 
obtain the money through the channel so arranged between 
the General Government and the last mentioned gentlemen. 
You must allow me to caution j^ou against signing requi- 
sitions of any kind, affecting the credit or property of the 
State. Such subjects must be referred to me." 

When he believed that the militia of his state had been 
unjustly treated, he gave vent to his indignation in a tone 
of manly remonstrance. 

In a letter to Jonathan Fisk, one of the Committee of 
Defence, then at Washington, under date of October 3, 
1814, he savs : — 

" I have observed w ith considerable regret the pointed 
neglect of General P. B. Porter and his gallant A'olunteers 
in the President's message. When I inform you that Gene- 
ral Porter raised his own corps at his own expense, under 
desponding circumstances, the Niagara frontier having just 
before been desolated, and there being, when he began, no 
prospect of the assistance of a considerable regular force 
there ; that the Legislature had tied my hands so that I 
could only help him by commissions and general orders, 
and he had no funds to recruit Math, no bounty money or 
allowance in lieu of clothing, and no pay beyond what 
regulars received. Besides all this, he was odious to the 
federal party. A contested election was just coming on, 
and Lovett, V. R., and others had slandered him and im- 
puted to him a want of courage, patriotism, &c. ; that he 
had to make his way through a load of detraction and 
malignity, and a mountain of difficulties. He surmounted 
all these obstacles, and raised a considerable force. With 
these, he has distinguished himself in every action which 
has been fought, and put his calumniators beneath his feet. 
He opened the ball at Chippewa, went with Scott to the 
shore of Lake Ontario, fought bravely at the battle of 
Bridgewater, at the attack upon Erie under Gaines, and in 
the late sortie under Brown, &c., and has lost General John 
Swift and a number of brave companions. He has been 
twice wounded himself. 



APPENDIX. 147 

•' These distinguished instances of gallantry and public 
services have been repeatedly and officially communicated 
to the General Government. Yet whilst all others have 
been breveted and complimented, General Porter and his 
little band alone are neglected, and are not even mentioned 
by the President in his message. I admit the President 
was under no necessity of naming subordinate officers and 
corps, but he has done it in respect to Scott and Gaines, 
which makes his omission of Porter more unjust and cruel. 
None of the others have been in actions in which Porter 
was not, but not one of them can say the same of him, for 
they have been alternately absent from actions in which 
Porter was engaged. 

" I could, however, have overlooked the omission of the 
President in this instance, as the result of the confusion and 
agitation at Washington, but I see resolutions have been 
proposed in Congress to compliment Brown, Scott and 
Gaines, and other troops, carefully omitting General Porter 
again. Now, with this repetition of cold neglect, I am 
compelled to suppose that some personal or local prejudice 
withholds the meed of praise that is due to him, either of 
which is unworthy of liberal minded politicians, and wholly 
unpardonable in the rulers of the nation. 

" In noticing the affair at Plattsburgh too, the President 
seems carefully to have avoided the mention of New- York 
or Vermont militia. At Baltimore where all would have 
distinguished themselves had not the enemy retired unmo- 
lested and in safety on board without even being observed, 
the praises of the militia are trumpeted forth, but it is said 
that at Plattsburgh the enemy was gallantly repulsed by a 
force a part only of which was regulars. Now it is well 
known that one column of the British army took the Beek- 
mantown Road, and that this column was opposed both in 
its advance and retreat by militia alone, not a regular being 
opposed to that column. 

" The regulars had their strong works to retire to, and did 
retire to them on the advance of the other column of the 
enemy, whilst the militia both in retreat and pursuit were 



148 APPENDIX. 

exposed in the open field and suffered most, as will be seen 
by the ultimate return of killed and wounded of New-York 
and Vermont militia and volunteers. It may be said that 
McDonough's victory caused the retreat of the British land 
force. Still that detracts from the praise due the regulars 
who were in works more than it does from that due the 
militia ; ior the one was exposed to field attack and pursu- 
ed the enemy in his retreat and the other was in strong 
works and did not pursue. 

" Enclosed is an order of General Brown, which shows that 
even the common militia of New- York assembled in haste, 
has behaved gallantly in the late sortie at Erie. The 
storming of strong works by militia, certainly demands un- 
bounded applause. 

" Now with the exception of General Brown, the mention 
of whom could not be avoided because he commanded the 
army, not a New-Yorker is praised or even mentioned, and 
with respect to Brown even, the honor of the mention is 
greatly impaired by coupling subordinate officers with him. 
Nor are the patriotism, volunteers or militia of the state 
mentioned, although at the time the President penned his 
message, nearly 30,000 of the yeomanry of the state were 
in the service of the United States, and without whom, two 
of their armies would probably have been lost and the me- 
tropolis of the state before this time have been in the pos- 
session of the enemy. 

" I am far from detracting from the services of the gallant 
Generals noticed by the President. It is of the injustice 
done to others by the omission of their names and services, 
that I complain. 

" Should the complimentary resolutions introduced into 
congress exclude Porter and his brave comrades, I am satis- 
fied that our legislature will feel themselves called upon to 
do them justice by recitals and resolutions that will give 
your great men at Washington a Rowland for your Oliver." 

The ardor of his patriotism did not cool with the occasion 
which excited it. After the termination of the war, he 
availed himself of every opportunity which offered, to re- 



APPENDIX. 149 

ward and defend those who had faithfully discharged their 
duty to their country in the hour of its adversity. A few 
instances will be all that time will now allow me to give. 

In a letter to General Jackson, dated April 21, 1815, he 
says : — 

"I am directed by the Legislature of this State, to trans- 
mit to you their unanimous resolution of thanks for your 
gallant and glorious defence of New-Orleans, and to request 
you to communicate to your brave associates in arms, the 
grateful sense which the Legislature entertains of their 
signal services. 

" I cannot, sir, sufficiently express my admiration of that 
firmness and distinguished conduct which saved from the 
ravages of an excited soldiery the capital of the district 
committed to your charge. In most of the incidents of the 
late war, we have perceived displays of the military pre- 
tensions of our country ; but this last achievement, both as 
respects the preparatory arrangements and the brilliancy of 
the victory, manifests most distinctly and emphatically, how 
capable the American people are of the highest military 
results when skilfully and courageously directed, and ex- 
cites universal gratitude and applause." 
. On the same day he wrote a letter to an individual of a 
different calling, which, while it demonstrates his patriot- 
ism, shows the prevalence of a feeling among the people 
which was certain to be attended with the happiest results. 

The letter is addressed to the Rev. Benjamin Wooster, 
Fairfield, Franklin County, Vermont. 

"Albany, April 21, 1815. 

" Reverend Sir, — General Strong who commanded the in- 
trepid volunteers of Vermont, on the memorable 11th Sep- 
tember, 1814, has made me acquainted with the very dis- 
tinguished part you bore in the achievements of that day. 

" A portion of your parishioners, roused by the dangers 
which hung over our invaded country, generously volun- 
teered in her defence and chose you, their pastor, for their 
13* 



160 APPENDIX. 

leader. You promptly obeyed the summons, and placing 
yourself at the head of your little band, repaired with alacri- 
ty to the tented field. Here you endured with patient for- 
titude, the vicissitudes of the camp, spurning the proffered 
indulgences which were justly due to the sanctity of your 
character. In the hour of battle you were found with your 
command in the ranks of the regiment to which you were 
attached, bravely contending for the imperishable honors of 
victory. The invaders being expelled, you quietly returned 
with your small, but gallant troop, to the duties of your sa- 
cred calling, and there inculcated by precept those princi- 
ples of morality, patriotism and piety, of which you had 
just given a practical demonstration. 

" At a period, sir, when principles inconsistent with what 
we owe to ourselves, our country and our God, had gone 
abroad, your example on the occasion alluded to, could not 
fail to carry with it an irresistible influence. It illustrated 
the perfect compatibility of the injunctions of patriotism 
with the duties of religion, and was a striking and affecting 
instance of that attachment and self devotedness to the 
cause of a beloved country which ought always to distin- 
guish the conduct of the virtuous and the ,pious in times of 
peril and of war. 

" As a memorial of my veneration for your disinterested, 
noble and patriotic conduct, on the 11th September, 1814, 
and of my grateful sense of the eminent benefits which this 
State and the Union have derived from your example and 
exploits, I request your acceptance of this sacred volume, 
and beg you to convey to your brave associates, the assur- 
ance of my highest estimation of their patriotism and sig- 
nal services. 

« DANIEL D. TOMPKINS." 

This letter called forth the following reply : — 

" His Excellency Daniel D. Tompkins, Esq., Governor of 

the State of New-York. 

" Sir, — Last evening my sensibility was awakened by the 
reception of Brown's gold-gilt family Bible, which your 



APPENDIX. 151 

Excellency was pleased to forward by the politeness of 
Colonel Anthony Lamb, Aid-de-camp to your Excellency. 
And if the stores of Heaven had been milocked, your Ex- 
cellency could not have found a more precious gift than the 
Word of God, except you could have bestowed the very 
God of Word. And as if it were possible to enhance the 
value of the present, your Excellency was pleased in a let- 
ter dated Albany, April 21, 1815, to bestow many encomi- 
ums on ?ne and my intrepid band, for our conduct at Platts- 
burgh on the memorable 11th of September, 1814. You are 
pleased to observe that ' General Strong who commanded 
the intrepid volunteers from Vermont, had made you ac- 
quainted with the part I bore in the achievement of that 
day.' I did not, sir, expect to be particularly noticed by 
General Strong ; nor by the Governor of the first State in the 
Union: but by this I have assurance that our patriotic 
fathers delight to search out and reward the honest attempt 
to deserve well of our country. Should a candid public 
consider your very handsome encomium too freely bestowed, 
I hope they will also believe that nothing but the speedy 
flight of the invaders could have prevented our deserving 
all which your Excellency has been pleased to say. 

" The calls of a sister state in a common cause, wafted to 
our ears by the western breeze, were powerful. The Gov- 
ernor of Vermont called for volunteers — fourteen thousand 
British pressed upon Plattsburgh — the shock was like elec- 
tricity, and the language of the brave was ' I will go' The 
act looked like temerity in the eyes of the over-prudent — 
the event was dubious and hung in awful suspense, but our 
lives had no value when our country was in disgrace. My 
aged brethren and sisters, whom I loved as my life, that 
moment collected to hear a sermon preparatory to the sacra- 
mental supper, from my lips, expressed their fears that I was 
depriving them of their pastor forever. They said, will you 
not preach for us this once — we expect to see you no more ! 
Come go with us into the house where the church are col- 
lected. Fearing what effect so tender a meeting might 
have upon my mind, I bade them a tender adieu, em- 



152 APPENDIX. 

braced my family in tears, kissed my clinging babes, and 
set out immediately with my companions to Plattsburgh. 
The conduct of my men on that hazardous expedition will 
endear them to me while my heart beats for my country, or 
the blood remains warm in my veins. 

" The honor done me on this occasion, will be considered 
as rendered to all my companions in arms — and it is hoped 
will prove a stimulus to others to seek to deserve well of 
their country. 

" Your Excellency is pleased to observe that I ' obeyed the 
summons, repaired to the tented field and there endured the 
vicissitudes of the camp, spurning the proffered indulgences 
which were justly due to the sanctity of my character.' 
The sanctity of my station. Sir, I would seduously guard. 
But I have yet to learn that sanctity of character will make 
bondage sweet, danger unbecoming, or justify idleness 
when it is the duty of every man to act. Law and custom 
rendered me an exempt, but my conscience and my country 
forbade me to make appeal. Hard indeed had been my 
lot to be chained by custom to a bed of down, when General 
Strong and his men were braving the dangers of the field 
of honor. How could my heart endure, when my people 
were in danger, and yet could not find me dividing those 
dangers by their side ! 

" I grew up, Sir, with the principles that dangers lessen 
by being divided — that States are strengthened by union, 
and that regular armies and fleets are invigorated by seeing 
citizens contending for the honors of victory by their sides. 
Hard is the fate of the soldier, when those who should be 
his friends, whose battle he fights, and whose property he 
defends, are idle or pining for his fall. 

" The sacred volume alluded to as above, your Excellency 
is pleased to present ' as a memorial of your veneration for 
my distinguished conduct on the 11th of September, 1814.' 
Gratefully I receive it as such, and beg leave to remind 
your Excellency that this same holy book taught me to seek 
for Plattsburgh, and told me how to behave while I was 
there. 



APPENDIX. - 153 

" You are pleased to request me * to convey to my brave 
associates the assurance of your high estimation of their 
patriotism and signal services.' It shall be done — and your 
Excellency may be assured, that should such a day as the 
11th of September, 1814 ever return while we have life — 
the SAME MEN, yes many more, will appear in the field 

as volunteers from Fairfield. 

"BENJAMIN WOOSTER. 

"Fairfield, June 15, 1825." 

The kindness of his heart seems never to have failed him. 

Among the citizens of our State who distinguished them- 
selves during the Avar, were John Swift and Daniel Davis, 
Generals in our militia, who fell in the sortie from Fort Erie. 
Our Legislature, in commemoration of their valor, directed 
the Governor to present a sword to the eldest male heir of 
each of them. 

The heir in each case, was a son, a j^oung lad, and the 
Governor took pains in both instances, to have the swords 
presented in such manner as would be most likely to be 
most serviceable to them through life. He therefore se- 
lected as his agents in the task, distinguished persons from 
the vicinity where the young men lived, and was careful 
to let them understand his object. 

To Gideon Granger, who was one of those agents, he 
wrote : 

" One object I have in view by presenting to young Swift 
his sword in the county where he lives, is to bring him into 
notice and respect amongst that portion of his fellow citi- 
zens, whose good opinions will be most serviceable to him 
hereafter. As the father was a distinguished member of 
the corps of volunteers which was raised by my orders and 
upon my responsibility, without Legislative authority. I 
feel a particular attachment to the son, and a strong desire 
to promote to the utmost of my power, his prospects and 
fame." 

To James W. Stevens, who was one of his agents in the 
other case, he wrote in the following glowing terms : 



154 APPENDIX. 

" I have a particular desire that the sword intended for 
the eldest male heir of General Davis, deceased, should be 
presented in that quarter of the country in which he resides, 
and in the midst of those citizens whose good opinion will 
be most likely to be of use to him at his entrance into life. 
It is therefore important to him that the sword should be 
presented in as large an assemblage of the most respecta- 
ble ladies and gentlemen that can conveniently be brought 
together. 

" I need not mention to you that General Davis was a 
volunteer for the occasion of the sortie, and induced others 
to follow his example, and that too when it was reduced to 
a certainty that desperate fighting must be endured, and 
that victory, captivity or death were the only alternatives 
which those who crossed at that period could promise 
themselves. 

" He may, therefore, be considered as a voluntary de- 
voted martyr to save that gallant little army, and thereby 
save the district of the country in which he lived, if not the 
nation, from impending overthrow and destruction. These 
circumstances, together with his remarkably honorable and 
steadfast conduct in the daring and noble enterprise of the 
sortie, and that of his being my fellow militia officer in- 
spires my greatest sympathy for his family, my utmost 
veneration for his memory, my warmest attachment for his 
son, and my most earnest wish to promote his welfare, tem- 
poral and spiritual, and make me anxious that the part of 
their address, in which the committee as my representa- 
tives may express my ardent wish for his future welfare, be 
in glowing and affectionate terms, and they may rest as- 
sured I shall feel for ever as much as they can express. 

" As I take it for granted you will be the composer and 
orator on the occasion, I have thought this declaration in 
confidence, of my sympathy, veneration and affectionate 
regard fo/ the departed hero and his bereft family would 
not be unacceptable to you, and that you will appreciate 
my motives in wishing that the utmost publicity and effect 
may be given to the ceremony, with a view to its benign 



APPENDIX. 155 

operation upon the character and future prospects of the 
tender youth." 

He was not content, however, simply with discharging 
the duty thus imposed upon him by the Legislature. 
Having learned that young Davis had had very little op- 
portunity for improvement — that with the advantages of an 
education he would be likely to make a shining character, 
and that his circumstances were by no means affluent, he 
addressed an earnest appeal in his behalf to the Govern- 
ment. " His father," such was his language, " nobly died 
in defence of his country at the sortie from Fort Erie, where 
he headed a patriotic band of volunteers which he had 
called together for the purpose of joining the army at the 
most momentous period of the war, when certain that either 
victory or death must be the result." He therefore urged 
the appointment of young Davis as a cadet or midshipman, 
which ever might be deemed most beneficial to him. 

I will not attempt to disguise the reluctance with which 
I am compelled by the limits allowed to these papers, to 
draw these extracts to a close. They are pervaded by so 
kindly a spirit — by so active a benevolence — by patriotism 
so ardent and pure, and by uniform elevation of thought 
and purpose, that it is most delightful to revel among their 
pages. 

Years having rolled away since he played so prominent 
and active a part on the stage, and the party rancor with 
which he was sometimes beset having been long since 
buried in the grave of the past, ample justice may now, 
without offence, be done to him who was in every sense of 
the word, 

" A statesman lofty and a patriot pure." 

The task, however, of doing full justice to his memory, 
belongs to an abler pen; but no one is too feeble to admire 
the elevated patriotism which induced him, at a most trying 
crisis, to forego the honor intended for him by the President, 
to sacrifice his own health and the comfort of his family to 
the paramount duty of serving his country in that sphere 



156 APPENDIX. 

where he could be most useful, and to offer himself a vic- 
tim for its safety if it should be necessary ; and the indomi- 
table energy which enabled him, in less than forty days, 
without assistance in money from the national government, 
to bring into the field at various points of danger nearly 
50,000 men, organized, armed and equipped, to endure the 
toil, expense and embarrassment of commanding 20,000 of 
them in person, and at the same time to administer the 
government of the state : and in less than sixty days, when 
the national credit was at its lowest point of depression, 
when the payment of even the interest of its notes could 
not be provided for, to raise for the public service upwards 
of $1,000,000. 

If it should be asked what was his reward, for his great 
services to his country, and where stands his monument ? 
the veneration in which his memory is yet regarded by the 
whole nation, answers that it is erected in the hearts of his 
countrymen — 

" Such honors Ilion to her hero paid, 

And peaceful slept the mighty Hector's shade." 



APPENDIX. 1 57 



MEETING OF THE FIRST OF OCTOBER. 



THE FIRST VICE PRESIDENT IN THE CHAIR. 



Mr. Wetmore announced the death of John Pintard, LL.D., 
and remarked that he should rely on some of the older 
members, who had been cotemporary with the deceased 
while actively engaged in the duties of the Society, to do 
justice to his memory. Recently one of the small number 
of the surviving founders of the Institution, he had always 
been its ardent friend and efficient advocate, and it was 
certainly proper that a fitting tribute of respect for his 
many virtues, should be placed upon the records of a So- 
ciety of which he had been a constant and disinterested 
benefactor. Mr. W. submitted the following resolutions : 

Resolved, That in the decease of John Pintard, LL.D., 
this Society has lost one of its earliest and most devoted 
friends — one of those, indeed, to whom the Institution owes 
its origin and much of its usefulness. 

Resolved, That the memory of Mr. Pintard is cherished 
by the members of this Society, for the many excellent 
features of his private and public character. 

Resolved, That copies of these resolutions be transmitted 
to the family of the deceased. 

Mr. Philip Hone, in rising to second the Resolutions, made 
the following remarks : 

I am not prepared, Mr. President, for the performance of 

the melancholy, but grateful duty which seems to have 

fallen upon me, as the friend of the venerable and excellent 

man whose memory your Resolution proposes to honor, 

14 



158 APPENDIX. 

to respond to the sentiment of that Resolution, and by 
seconding, to present it for your adoption. The want of 
previous reflection and preparation, compels me to be more 
brief in the remarks I shall make, than my subject might 
justify, or my materials warrant. And I am moreover ad- 
monished to that prudent course by the knowledge that my 
friend opposite, is better prepared for your edification, and 
that I may not occupy too much of the time which will be 
more profitably employed in listening to the memoir which 
he is about to present to the Society. 

I have been for so long a period actively engaged in the af- 
fairs of my native city, that my recollection of old times is 
better, and my acquaintance with old men more extensive 
than my age would seem to warrant. I am not exceedingly 
anxious for patriarchal honors, but begin to find that my 
services henceforth are likely to be confined to the corps of 
veterans ; and to prove myself eligible, I would state the 
interesting fact that I have been invited, within the space 
of four months of the present year, to assist as a pall bearer 
in the performance of the last offices of friendship, at the 
funerals of five of our most respectable and venerated 
fellow-citizens, whose united ages amounted to four hundred 
and thirty years.* On this " time-honored" list of names, 
is that of the gentleman who is the subject of the resolu- 
tion under consideration, and by this I am warranted in 
discoursing on this theme. 

Few men in civil and unofficial life have moved in a 
sphere of public usefulness so large, or occupied it so well 
as John Pintard. 

He was a descendant of the Huguenots, and inheriting 
the love of civil and religious liberty which characterized 
that band of persecuted patriots, and influenced by a zealous 
and ardent temperament, he was, during the Revolution an 



* Major General Morgan Lewis, who died April 7th, aged - - 90 

Mr. Jonathan H. Lawrence, June 4th, aged - ... 8^ 

Mr. John pintard, June 20th, aged 87 

Mr. Gabriel Furman, July 23d, aged 89 

Mr. John G. Coster, August 8th, aged - - - - 82 



APPENDIX. 159 

old fashioned Whig of the best stamp, and continued, ever 
after, a friend of liberty, and a republican, according to the 
standard then established. 

At a subsequent period, when the master spirit of De 
Witt Clinton began to move the impulses of public opinion 
in favor of internal improvement, and the plan of the great 
work was developed, so magnificent in conception, and 
which has proved so successful in its results, when among 
the leading men of this city, destined as it was to be 
the recipient of its greatest benefits, scarcely half a dozen 
avowed their faith in the glorious enterprize, the subject of 
your resolution chose to arrange himself on the side of its 
advocates in Albany ; and De Witt Clinton, Jonas Piatt, 
James Kent, Stephen Van Rensselaer, and Joshua Furman 
found in John Pintard a firm advocate and zealous coadjutor. 

Among the great objects of public utility in our city, the 
philanthropic mind of Mr. Pintard was directed to the 
establishment and organization of the Bank for Savings. 
He was one of the fathers of this great institution, the use- 
fulness and magnitude of which may be estimated from 
the fact, that the last semi-annual statement of its affairs 
showed an amount of deposits (literally the savings of the 
poor) of nearly four millions and a half of dollars, and of 
30,841 open accounts on the ledgers. He labored inces- 
santly "in season and out of season," in its service, and 
never gave up the laboring oar whilst his physical strength 
kept pace, in any degree, with the energy of his mind, and 
the benevolence of his heart. 

It was in his capacity of a Trustee of this institution, and 
its President, that I was best acquainted with this good 
Samaritan. I was his companion in the former station for 
nearly twenty years, and now enjoy the honor of being his 
successor in the latter. Here, as in all other stations of 
life, he joined to his other virtues, the characteristics of a 
perfect gentleman, of the old school. 

In my enumeration of the public institutions of which he 
was the early and devoted friend, I may not omit to men- 
tion your own. No individual made greater personal and 



160 APPENDIX. 

pecuniary sacrifices to sustain and support it, when the sun 
of popular favor withheld its beams, and the clouds of 
neglect obscured its future prospects. Happy would he 
have been to witness its present renovation, and most fitting 
is it that you, gentlemen, should embalm his memory in 
your hearts, and render to it the tribute of respect which 
this resolution proposes. 

These are some of the many objects of public spirit and 
philanthropy to which the energies of his mind, during a 
long and active life, were disinterestedly directed. 

I could say more, Mr. President, on this subject, did time 
and circumstances permit. I could not say less, for my 
discourse was of a venerated associate and dear friend, and 
I conclude by begging permission to second the resolutions. 

The resolutions were thereupon unanimously adopted. 

Mr. Jay said he rose to offer a resolution which he knew 
would be responded to by the society, with deep sincerity. 
It related to one whose public services and private worth 
were as well known to the community at large as to that 
body — the late William L. Stone — whose name was identi- 
fied with American Literature, and especially with her 
Historic Literature, and whose long-continued and active 
service as a member of the Historical Society, had won for 
him their warm respect, and had entitled him to the grati- 
tude of those who should succeed them. 

Mr. Jay said, that having often been associated with 
Colonel Stone upon committees, and having frequently met 
him in private life, he was glad of an opportunity of offer- 
ing this slight, but well-deserved, tribute to his memory. 
But he would not detain the society by any farther remarks 
upon his character ; for he saw around him many whose 
personal intercourse with Mr. Stone had been more inti- 
mate and frequent, who he doubted not would be glad to 
speak on the subject of their departed friend. 

Resolved, That in the recent death of the late William 
L. Stone, we mourn the loss of an associate, whose public 



APPENDIX. 161 

and private character commanded our respect — whose 
many and varied writings, both as editor and author, have 
greatly furthered the advancement of our historic litera- 
ture, and whose warm enthusiasm and active efforts in 
behalf of this society justly claim this tribute to his 
memory. 

Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing resolution be 
transmitted to the widow of Mr. Stone, as an expression of 
sympathy and condolence from this society in the loss she 
has sustained. 

Hon. Marshall S. Bid well seconded the resolutions, in a 
speech of some length, in which he eulogized the subject of 
them for his abilities, uprightness and consistency. In the 
course of his remarks, Mr. Bidwell observed that Colonel 
Stone, as all knew, was zealously attached to his party, and 
was uniform and consistent in support of the principles he 
espoused, but was at the same time characterized by great 
candor, and ever exhibited frankness in the expression of 
his opinions, and a scorn of dissimulation. . His indepen- 
dence of these trammels of party, by which so many are 
shackled, was not only honorable to himself, but of vast 
importance to the thousands who were in a measure guided 
by his editorial pen; His opinions on all topics of mo- 
ment, had a great influence through a wide extent of coun- 
try. With many he was regarded as an oracle ; and all 
his influence was exerted in favor of civil liberty, of social 
order, of virtue, justice, and the supremacy of the law. In 
private life, his character was peculiarly delightful ; and 
all who enjoyed his intimacy must admit that when he 
died they lost a rare friend, and a most pleasant companion. 
His wit, ever ready, and often brilliant, was always good 
natured, and on the side of virtue. But his great feature 
was kindness of disposition — inducing him to feel and ex- 
hibit an active interest in all that concerned the welfare of 
his fellow men. 

Mr. Bidwell referred, among other instances of this trait, 
to his warm, earnest, and signal efforts in favor of the 
14* 



162 APPENDIX. 

Greeks, when struggling for their independence, and spoke 
of his ready kindness to individuals, as frequently shown, 
not in mere cordial sympathy, but in prompt and efficient 
action; and stated, that the last time he had been sent for 
by his friend, on his death-bed, was to receive instructions 
to do a kind service to a stranger, who had no other claim 
upon his aid except as presenting an opportunity for the 
exercise of his benevolence. 

The resolutions were unanimously adopted. 

William B. Hodgson, Esq., of Savannah, Ga., was intro- 
duced to the society, and read a paper entitled, " Remarks 
on the past History and present Condition of Morocco, 
Algiers, and the Barbary Regencies." 

Mr. Hodgson commenced by remarking — " The shores 
of the Mediterranean sea have, in all historic times, been 
the theatre of great political and commercial revolutions. 
They have witnessed the rise and fall of empires ; and as 
those classic lands were the cradle of letters, of science, of 
human polity and religion, so has time produced their de- 
cline and decay, or their subversion, by other forms of de- 
generate government or debasing creeds." 

After this introduction Mr. Hodgson sketched in a very 
hasty manner the changes of nations, governments, and re- 
ligions which history records, to the time of the Saracen 
conquest, whose dominion in Africa as in Spain, was limit- 
ed to a period of eight centuries ; for shortly after the ex- 
pulsion of the Moors from the peninsula, a host of Turkish 
or Tartar adventurers seized upon the chief towns of Bar- 
bary, and for three centuries their dominion was maintained 
in the regencies of Tripoli, Tunis and Algiers. Hair-ed-din, 
or Barbarossa, the first Turkish conqueror, did not extend 
his rule to Morocco ; and that empire has never since been 
invaded by the Turk. • Although it adopted the same policy 
as the Turks in relation to Christendom, it always remained 
subject to Arab or Moorish Sultans. 

The memoir presented, in a striking and gratifying man- 
ner, the influence which the United States have had in im- 



APPENDIX. 163 

proving the condition of things in the Mediterranean, by- 
leading to the overthrow of that system of piracy and op- 
pression, which was so long carried on by the petty Moor- 
ish powers. History informs us that these depredations 
were first made by way of reprisal, or under the general 
character of belligerent operations against Spain by the 
Moors, whom she had persecuted and expelled. They were, 
however, ere long extended against the ships of all Christian 
nations. 

The nations of Europe, as Mr. Hodgson stated, had taken 
no efficient measures to put an end to this system, so dis- 
graceful as well as injurious to them, at the time when our 
revolutionary war was ended. Soon after it closed. Lord 
Sheffield, in his work on the commerce of Great Britain, 
expressed the opinion that the Americans would not be able 
to participate in the Mediterranean trade, in consequence 
of the corsairs of Barbary. 

The rovers of Salee in Morocco, continued Mr. Hodg- 
son, and the corsairs of Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli, had for 
centuries been the terror of the smaller maritime states of 
Southern and Northern Europe. The gates of the Gibraltar 
straits were opened only to the payers of tribute, and the 
right of way received by these humiliating conditions was 
often violated by these Mohammedan pirates, as their cu- 
pidity or caprice suggested. But the most barbarous and 
fearful feature of this system was slavery. Men, and even 
women were fettered, imprisoned in dungeons, sold and 
often treated with cruelty. Thousands of seamen and 
travellers, in the course of three centuries, had suffered 
captivity, and many of those who were restored obtained 
their liberty by paying high ransoms. The only opposition 
made to this system of piracy, was by an occasional cap- 
ture by such commanders as Anson and Du Quesne. 

But soon after the establishment of American Independ- 
ence, the great principles of Washington's foreign policy 
were brought into operation : friendship was cultivated with 
all nations: entangling alliances with none. But the 



164 APPENDIX. 

payment of tribute and ransoms also was miavoidable 
while we had not power enough to cope with the forces 
of the Barbary pirates. Nearly a million of dollars was 
paid them, at one time, for the ransom of Americans whom 
they held in captivity. But this was submitted to only 
until we had power to resist it. After the close of the last 
war, when we had ships to spare for such a service, Commo- 
dore Decatur, with a large naval force destroyed the cor- 
sairs of Algiers, and dictated terms of peace to all these 
piratical states. Tribute and the enslaving of American 
citizens were forever abolished. 

Influenced powerfully by our example, no doubt, Great 
Britain soon showed an inclination to adopt our policy. 
Lord Exmouth, in 1816, brought the Algerines to terms : but 
his government did not pursue its new course with equal 
decision, so that it seemed doubtful whether a suppression 
of piracy was designed. Not until 1830 was the system 
brought to its complete overthrow. France took Algiers 
by storm and is now engaged in extending her conquests 
over Barbary. 

In the present condition of the Barbary states, said Mr. 
Hodgson, Tripoli is again dependsnt upon the Ottoman 
Porte as a Pachalic ; Tunis is under the government of a 
native Turkish Pacha, and acknowledging no allegiance to 
the Porte but that which religious dependence implies ; Al- 
giers is a French colony, and Morocco is an independent 
Arab empire, under the dominion of Sultan Abd-errach- 
man, whose navy is dismantled. 

In a small volume of notes upon Northern and Central 
Africa, which is now in press, Mr. H. has made these re- 
marks : 

" On the African shores of the Mediterranean, there are 
now in progress great political and commercial revolutions. 
There now exists in that region a sanguinary and un- 
ceasing conflict of Christianity with Mahommedanism, ot 
civilization with semi-barbarism. France having conquer- 
ed Algiers, is now pushing her victorious legions into the 



APPENDIX. 165 

neighboring empire of Morocco. One of the elements in 
this strife of arms and of religion has not been fully appre- 
ciated. It is not with the Arab population alone that 
France has to contend. This is the more intellectual but 
smaller portion of the inhabitants of that region. The 
larger, but less informed, and more ferocious population, is 
that of the Berbers, who are the descendants of the ancient 
Numidians, and the aborigines of the land. The Romans 
termed this race genus insiqjerabile hello. It remains to be 
proved if they have lost that proud character. They have 
at least remained till now unconquered. While the plains 
have been abandoned to successive invasions, they have 
ever preserved their nationality and independence in their 
inaccessible mountains. In a question of valuable and per- 
manent conquest. Sir Robert Peel has doubtless drawn the 
distinction of races of men. The Hindoo, Chinese and Poly- 
nesian have submitted to conquest and supremacy. The 
Berber may now, as ever, resist foreign invasion and do- 
minion. This race has, to a certain degree, coalesced with 
the Saracens, having embraced the religion of the Arab 
prophet. The French invader has all the elements of reli- 
gious fanaticism and of warlike independence to oppose him. 
The Berbers are the original lords of the soil, and the per- 
manent conquests of France will depend on the peculiar 
genius and abilities of this race. 

" The military occupation of JMorocco by France cannot 
be a subject of jealousy or remonstrance to the cabinets of 
Europe. Great Britain, who may be supposed to have the 
greatest interest in this question, esteems it to be of little 
importance, while she will certainly, at a proper time, in- 
demnify herself in Egypt. She is aware, that while brilliant 
feats of arms in Africa may flatter the martial spirit of 
France, her expenditure of treasure and men is certain, 
while no valuable resources can be derived from her con- 
quests." 

" I cannot conclude this paper," said Mr. Hodgson, 
" without paying a small tribute of affectionate respect, and 
of enduring admiration to the memory of a distinguished 



166 APPENDIX. 

American citizen, whose name is intimately connected with 
the history of our relations with Barbary. I allude to the 
late William Shaler, Consul General of the United States at 
Algiers. His appointment in this capacity, by the late Pre- 
sident Madison, was contemporaneous with the operations 
of Decatur, and the honorable peace which they enforced. 
He remained at Algiers, with a general superintendence of 
our relations with all the Barbary Regencies, until the year 
1828, when he was appointed Consul at Havana, where he 
terminated his career of signal usefulness to his country. 

" Mr. Shaler had recommended himself to the then Secre- 
tary of State, Mr. Madison, at an earlier period, by his po- 
litical sagacity and knowledge of our foreign relations, and 
by his disciplined judgment and consummatOj prudence. 
In the capacity of a confidential agent, he was sent to 
Mexico, before the late war, to report upon the state of the 
revolt, then in progress against Spain. He was subse- 
quently despatched by Mr. Madison to Europe, at the period 
of the Treaty of Ghent. If his confidential services related 
to that Congress of Plenipotentiaries, I have never learned. 
His last appointment under that wise and distinguished 
statesman was to Algiers. 

" There it was my good fortune first to have acquired his 
friendship. The official dependence which I bore to him, 
secured for me, the invaluable lessons of his large expe- 
rience with men and things, and what I esteemed more, the 
instruction of his virtuous mind. In my official service, I 
learned how important it was, that certain men should be 
selected for particular office, and that Mr. Shaler was the 
peculiar man to superintend an intercourse with semi-bar- 
barians. Stern, inflexibly just, unostentatious and quick, 
the Algerines feared while they respected him. The sanctity 
of his house alone was observed, of all the Consuls, at the 
English war in 1824. Mr. Shaler resisted the demands of 
the Algerines. He was allowed to do so ; but the house of 
the English Consul was violated. Such is the importance 
of personal character, in every relation of life, public and 
private, but especially so among barbarians. 



APPENDIX. 167 

" The history of Mr. Shaler's private career was to me, 
philosophy teaching by example. To illustrate the force 
of industry and perseverance, he referred to his ow^n case. 
Born in Middletovi^n, Conn., he early embarked in a subor- 
dinate capacity on board of one of the coasting vessels. 
His education had been limited to reading, writing and 
arithmetic. In the lapse of time, he found himself captain 
and owner of an East-India-man, and the first navigator 
who traded between China and the Columbia river. Pos- 
sessed of ambition, a laudable curiosity and desire for general 
information, he employed his many leisure hours, in the 
study of history and physical science. In his voyages to 
every port of Europe, he was prompted to acquire the 
languages of the countries which he visited. Such was his 
success in this study, I can assert, that few foreigners ever 
have acquired so perfect a knowledge of French in its 
abundant idioms, as he had. He spoke grammatically and 
pronounced correctly. His attainments in Italian are 
evinced by his translation of the Abbe Molina's history of 
Chile, which he rendered into English, during a voyage 
from Valparaiso. 

" As an author and a historian, his Sketches of Algiers 
place him in a high rank. He was not a narrator. His 
Sketches of Algiers show that he was a profound philoso- 
pher, and possessed the critical judgment in tracing events 
to their causes, and deducing the moral laws of society and 
government. 

" He had acquired a competent knowledge of Latin, and 
when I first arrived at Algiers, he had nearly completed a 
translation of Buttman's Greek Grammar, Avhich he sus- 
pended when I informed him that this work was about to 
be executed by the Hon. Edward Everett. 

" The character of such a man could not but elevate that 
of his country. I witnessed a beautiful illustration of the 
estimation in which himself and his countrymen were held 
by the Dey of Algiers. One of our ships of war visited 
Algiers on her way to Smyrna. The Dey sent a compli- 
mentary message to Mr. Shaler, with a package of docu- 



168 ' APPENDIX. 

ments and a bag of gold, unsealed, Avith a request that he 
would ask of the captain the favor to deliver it to the 
American Consul at Smyrna. He represented to the Ba- 
shaw, that his seal should be placed on the treasure to avoid 
accident. His reply was that he knew the character of the 
Americans, and that the money was safe in their hands. It 
was accordingly so received and delivered. This confidence 
between man and man, is one of the pleasing and charac- 
teristic traits of the Turk — but I cannot say this of any 
other Oriental people. 

" The many high moral qualities of Mr. Shaler received 
much grace and perfection from his affection for his family. 
His sister and her orphan children continued to be the objects 
of his unceasing solicitude and affection. He provided for 
their comforts, and superintended their education. 

" I shall conclude this brief sketch of my lamented friend, 
with the heartfelt testimony, that never had my youth a 
more faithful guardian and counsellor, or my manhood a 
nobler object of grateful retrospect and worthy example." 

Mr. Gibbs read the following : — 

Account of the statue of George III., formerly standing 
IN the Bowling Green, New York. 

Most of the members are probably aware that an equestri- 
an statue of King George III. stood upon the Bowling Green, 
in this city, prior to the Revolution, and was overthrown 
soon after its commencement. I believe, however that 
its subsequent fate has never been recorded, and having in 
my possession a paper giving authentic information on the 
subject, I have supposed that the royal efiigy might be 
worth a brief obituary. 

The first mention of it I have met with is in the Laws of 
the Colony of New York, Act of 8th, George III, Ch. 1352, 
passed 6th February, 1768, entitled " An act to empower 
Sir William Baker, Knight, and Robert Charles, Esq., to 
pay for the statues of His Majesty and the Right Hon. 



APPENDIX. 169 

William Pitt, Esq., now Lord Chatham ;* and also for a 
piece of plate to be presented to John Sargent, Esq." The 
title of this act only, is given by Van Schaack in his edition 
of the statutes ; the act at large I have never seen, but it 
would probably be found to give some particulars not else- 
where to be seen. 

Holt's (New York) Gazette, as quoted by Mr. Dunlap, 
gives the following notice of its erection : 

" August 21st, 1770, being the birth day of Prince Freder- 
ick, the father of George III., anj elegant equestrian statue 
of his present Majesty, George III. was erected in the Bowl- 
ing Green, near Fort George. On this occasion the mem- 
bers of his Majesty's Council, the City Corporation, the 
Corporation of the Chamber of Commerce, the Corporation 
of the Marine Society, and most of the gentlemen of 
the City and army waited on his honor, the Lieutenant 
Governor C. Colden, in the Fort, at his request ; when his 
Majesty's and other loyal healths were drank under a dis- 
charge of thirty-two pieces of cannon, from the Battery, 
accompanied with a band of music. This beautiful statue 
is made of metal, (Dunlap says by way of parenthesis, 'the 
writer did not on such an occasion like to say what metal 
represented his royal majesty, the best of Kings ; it was 
hacV) being the first equestrian one of his present majesty, 
and is the workmanship of that celebrated statuary, Mr. 
Wilton of London." 

Symptoms of disloyalty, betokening revolution I presume, 
soon manifested themselves in the rude treatment of the 
effigy, for on the 6th February, 1773 (13th Geo. III. Ch. 1580,) 
another act was passed " to prevent the defacing the statues 
which are erected in the city of New York." 

The preamble recites that " there had been erected in 
the city of New York an Equestrian Statue of our most 
Gracious Sovereign, as a monument of the deep sense with 
which the inhabitants of this Colony are impressed of the 
blessings they enjoy under his illustrious reign, as well as 



* Lord Chatham's Statue was of marble and stood in Wall street. 
15 



1 70 APPENDIX. 

their great affection for his royal person ; and also a statue 
of the Right Hon. William Pitt, Earl of Chatham, in com- 
memoration of the many eminent services which he has 
rendered by his patriotic conduct in Parliament, to his fellow 
subjects in North America ;" and the act then proceeds to 
impose a penalty of £500, New York currency, on any per- 
son who should injure or deface them, or in default one year's 
imprisonment in the common jail, without bail or mainprize. 

Upon the above account of Holt's Mr. Dunlap observes : 

" This statue stood till sometime in 1776. I saw it in 1775. 
In 1776 it was thrown down, and tradition says converted 
into bullets to resist his gracious majesty's soldiers when 
sent to enforce the doctrine of ' the sovereignty of British 
Parliament over the Colonies in all cases whatsoever,' the 
doctrine of Mr. Pitt, Lord Chatham, which he died in an 
effort to enforce. The pedestal stood until long after the 
Revolution. No fragment of the horse or his rider was 
ever seen after its overthrow, and so completely had the 
memory of this event (the erecting the only equestrian 
statue ever set up in New York) been lost, that I have 
never found a person who could tell me on what occasion 
it was ordered, or when placed in the Bowling Green." 

In fact so much was the statue forgotten, that Watson in 
his sketches (p. 30,) has entirely mistaken the personage 
represented. Speaking of the overthrow, he says with a 
curious revival of tory feeling ; " My friend, Mr. John 
Baylie was present in April, '76 and saw the degrading 
spectacle. He saw no decent people present ; a great ma- 
jority were shouting boys. The insult, if so meant, was to 
the dead, as the statue was of George IL, our most gracious 
King." 

Some cotemporary notices of the destruction of this efhgy 
have been pointed out to me, which I will cite, and which 
will show that Watson was wrong not merely as to the 
person, but as to the time of its occurrence, which was im- 
mediately after the news of the declaration of Independence. 
The first is from a book of general orders issued by Wash- 



APPENDIX. 



171 



ington, the original of which is in the possession of the 
Society. It is as follows : 

"■July 10. Tho' the General doubts not the persons who 
pulled down and mutilated the statue in Broadway last 
night, acted in the public cause, yet it has so much the ap- 
pearance of riot and want of order in the army, that he 
disapproves the manner and directs that in future these 
things shall be avoided by the soldiery and left to be execu- 
ted by proper authority." 

The next is in a letter from Ebenezer Hazard to General 
Gates, dated July 12th, 1776, which will be found among 
the Gates papers, also in the Society's Collection, and is as 
follows : 

" The King of England's arms have been burned in Phi- 
ladelphia and his statue here has been pulled down to make 
musket balls of, so that his troops will probably have melted 
majesty fired at them." 

Another is in a letter from New York, of July 11th, 1776, 
published in the New Hampshire Gazette of the 20th. 

"New York, July 11. Last Monday evening the eques- 
trian statue of George III., with tory pride and folly raised 
in the year 1 770, was by the Sons of Freedom laid prostrate 
in the dust, the just desert of an ungrateful tyrant. The 
lead fi^herewith this monument is made is to be run into bul- 
lets, to assimilate with the brains of our infatuated adver- 
saries, who to gain a peppercorn, have lost an empire. 
Quern Deus milt perdere, prius dementat. A gentleman who 
was present at the ominous fall of leaden majesty, looking 
back to the original's hopeful beginning, pertinently exclaim- 
ed in the language of the angel to Lucifer ' If thou be'est 
he ; but ah, how fallen ! how changed ! !' " 

A note to this letter by the editor marks the allusion to 
Lord Clare's declaration in Parliament, that a peppei-corn 
in acknowledgment of Britain's right to tax America, 
was of more importance than millions without it. 

The destruction of the statue is also alluded to and in" 
correctly attributed to General Washington in a smutty tory 
production, entitled *' The Battle of Brookl}Ti, a farce in 



1 72 APPENDIX. 

two acts, as it was performed on Long Island, on Tuesday, 
the 27th day of August, 1776, by the Representatives of the 
Tyrants of America assembled at Philadelphia : New York, 
printed for J. Rivington, in the year of the Rebellion, 1776." 

Betty, a servant of " Lady Gates," is represented as com- 
plimenting General Washington in this wise : 

Betty. " Lord ! Lord ! mem, did he not make codfish of 
them all at Boston ! and has he not seen tory men rid upon 
rails at New York by the tailors and coblers of the town ? 
And more, my Lady, did he not order the King's statue to 
be pulled down and the head cut off? For God's sake, 
mem, what would'st have of a hero ? " 

Lady G. " Codfish at Boston ! It is really an odd term 
Betty ; but he did no more than that old fool Putnam would 
have done. His not forbidding that insult to humanity at 
New York, was countenancing an act of barbarism, and 
none but a little minded barbarian would have suffered the 
arts to be trampled under foot as he did, in the case of the 
king's statue." 

Such are the only notices I have met with of the statue, 
though probably others exist in the journals of the day. 
Mr. Stephens however, (Incidents of Travel in Russia, &c., 
vol. 2, p. 23) mentions having met with a curious memorial 
of its destruction, and at an out of the way place. This 
was a gaudy and flaring engraving in a black wooden 
frame, representing the scene of its destruction, which he 
found in a tavern at Chioff, in Russia. " The grouping of 
the picture," he says, " was rude and grotesque, the ring- 
leader being a long negro, stripped to his trowsers, and 
straining with all his might upon a rope, one end of which 
was fastened to the head of the statue and the other tied 
round his own waist, his white teeth and the whites of his 
eyes being particularly conspicuous on a heavy ground of 
black." How this picture found its way to Russia, it would 
be difficult to imagine ; it would certainly be not less a cu- 
riosity here than there. 

The document I have mentioned gives an account of its 
I'emaining history in a shape which history seldom assumes, 



APPENDIX. 



173 



that of an account current. It is preserved among the pa- 
pers of General, afterwards Governor, Oliver Wolcott, of 
Connecticut. It is a statement of the number of cartridges 
made from the materials of the statue by the ladies of 
Litchfield, and is in these words : — 



3456 cartridges. 
2602 

6058 

6204 

5388 



11,592 



8370 



Mrs. Marvin, 

" " on former account, 

Ruth Marvin on former account, 
Not sent to court house, 449 packs, 

Laura, on former account, . 

Not sent to court house 344 packs, 

Mary Ann, on former account. 

Not sent to the court house 119 packs, 

out of which I let Colonel Perley 

Howe have 3 packs, 

Frederic, on former account. 

Not sent to court house, 19 packs, . 



37,754 
Mrs. Beach's two accounts, . . , 2002 

Made by sundry persons, . . . , 2182 

Gave Litchfield militia, on alarm, . , 50 

Let the regiment of Col. Wigglesworth have 300 



4250 

4128 

5762 



5028 





10,790 


708 




228 






936 



Cartridges, No 42,288 

Overcharged in Mrs. Beach's account, 200 



42,088 



The original account is in General Wolcott's hand- 
wi'iting, and is endorsed "an account of the number of 
cartridges made." There is no date to it, nor is there men- 
tion made by him of the fact of their being made from the 
statue, but a memorandum added by his son, the last Gover- 
nor Wolcott, explains it as follows : — 
15* 



174 APPENDIX. 

" N. B. An equestrian statue of George the Third of 
Great Britain, was erected in the city of New York on the 
Bowling Green, at the lower end of Broadway ; most of the 
materials were lead, but richly gilded to resemble gold. 
At the beginning of the revolution this statue was over- 
thrown. Lead being then scarce and dear, the statue was 
broken in pieces, and the metal transported to Litchfield as 
a place of safety. The ladies of this village converted the 
lead into cartridges, of which the preceding is an ac- 
count. O. W." 

The Mrs. and Miss Marvin and Mrs. Beach, mentioned 
in the paper, belonged to families who yet reside in Litch- 
field ; the other persons named were the two daughters and 
the youngest son of General Wolcott. 

Litchfield, it may be noticed, was, during the war, a 
place of great importance as a military depot. After the 
capture of New York by the British in 1776, all communi- 
cation between New England and Pennsylvania was 
turned to the westward of the Highlands on the Hudson, 
and the troops and stores were usually passed through that 
village as a point on the most convenient route to the posts 
on the river yet in possession of the Americans. General 
Wolcott, who was a member of the Continental Congress, 
lived there, and during the intervals of his congressional 
attendance, was constantly occupied in raising troops to 
supply the requisitions of Washington, Putnam and Gates. 
It appears from his letters that he returned to Connecticut 
shortly after the adoption of the Declaration of Indepen- 
dence, of which he was one of the signers, and it is proba- 
ble that the statue was transported there at his instance, 
immediately after its destruction. Of its identity as the 
material for the cartridges above mentioned, there can be 
no doubt. The late Governor Wolcott, on graduating from 
Yale College in 1778, was appointed to an office in the 
quartermaster's department, under General Greene, and 
was posted at Litchfield, in charge of the stores there. His 
opportunity for knowing the fact, as mentioned in his note, 
was therefore certain. The late Hon. Judge Wolcott, more- 



APPENDIX. 175 

over, who figures in the account as " Frederic," and who 
was a boy at the time, informed me a few years ago that 
he well remembered the circumstance of the statue being 
sent there, and that a shed was erected for the occasion in 
an apple orchard adjoining the house, where his father 
chopped it up with the wood axe, and the " girls " had a 
frolic in running the bullets and making them up into 
cartridges. I suppose the alarm of the militia, on which 
some were distributed, was Trj'^on's invasion in 1777, when 
Danbury was burnt. On this occasion fourteen men, the 
last in Litchfield capable of bearing arms, were started at 
midnight to aid in repulsing the enemy. 

The estimation in which lead was held in those days may 
be imagined from the fact, that the above account of cart- 
ridges is filed carefully among returns of troops, accounts 
of requisitions upon the states, and issues of bills of credit. 

This incident in revolutionary history might, had it found 
its way to him, have well barbed a shaft at King George 
from Peter Pindar's own bow ; and we may suppose, from 
the grave attempts at waggery in the extracts above given, 
that a great deal of wit of one kind and another was ex- 
pended on the occasion. I suspect that the monarch, 
could he have listened to the gossip over the melting ladle, 
might have exclaimed with Richard, 

" Let not tlie heavens hear these tell tale women 
Rail at the Lord's anointed." 



176 APPENDIX. 



EXTRACTS 



FROM THE 



DOMES TEC CORRESPONDENCE 

(REFERRKD to in the PRECBDINa PAGES.) 



FROM E. CHAMPION BACON. 

;'■ Litchfield, Conn., January 24, 1844. 
Dear Sir, — I have to acknowledge your letter of the 5th, post-marked the 
20th instant, informing me of my election as Corresponding Member of the 
New York Historical Society, for which honor I beg to return my thanks. 

I find among my MSS. a bill of sale from Jolm Underliill, of the Dutch fort 
at Hartford. If you have not seen it, (and I believe it has not been printed,) 
you ought to have it. 

" Hartford, 28 June, 1653 
" These presents do declare that I John Underbill, senior, I having seized the 
house Dehope with the land and all appurtenances thereunto belonging, as Dutch 
goods lying in and about Hartford, by virtue of State power, do hereby engage, 
sell and pass over all my right and title in the said siezure, to Mr. Richard Lord 
and Mr. William Gibbons, merchants, in the said place, on conditions agreed 
upon between us, and do promise to give further confirmation unto them the said 
Richard and William, of this my sale of the premises to them. 
" Witness my hand, day and date above said. 

« JOHN UNDERHILL, Senior. 
^ " In presence of us — Nathaniel Thee, 
his 
James X Brock, 
mark." 

The following was written on the back side : 

"Huntingdon, Sept. 21,1667. 
" These on" the other side specified,' is this day owned and acknowledged of 
Captain John Underbill to be his own act and deed. 

" Before me, as witness my hand. Jonas Ward, Magistrate in the East Ri- 
ding of New-Yorkshire," 

Very respectfully and sincerely yours, 

E. CHAMPION BACON. 
' Geo. FoLSOM, Esq. 



APPENDIX. 177 



FROM BRANTZ MAYER, ESa., 
Corresponiiing Secretary of the Maryland Historical Society. 

Baltimore, 21st March, 1844. 

My Dear Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter 
of the 13th instant, fpost-marked 20tli) and am happy to find that a feature in the 
organization of our Maryland Historical Society has proved sufficiently attractive 
to elicit your enquiries. The " chapters" to which our circular alludes are not as 
you suppose — Branch Societies. We were particularly careful not to give them 
that character — in order to avoid a conflict of interests in different sections of our 
State — (small as it is, in comparison with New- York.) Our chajiters are to be 
composed of members of the society who reside more than ff teen miles from the 
city of Baltimore, and to whom we have given the name of corresponding mem- 
bers, in contradistinction to active members, who are residents of the city or 
within the prescribed limit. These chapters have the privilege of meeting as 
often as they choose ; — of selecting their own officers — collecting historical works, 
documents or materials — of preparing illustrative essays or papers relative to lo- 
cal histories, legends or interests — and, in fact, of gathering all information of 
utility to the general society in Baltimore, to which all such collections must be 
sent through their president, who is ex-officio a vice president of our institution. 

You will at once perceive the object of this proviso. There are hundreds of 
persons of Uterary tastes and pursuits scattered over the State, to whom the ob- 
jects of a Historical Society are naturally attractive. But when they are told 
that a society exists only in a distant capital, they at once object to unite them- 
selves with it when they find that they can never participate personally in its de- 
liberations. Our chapters, we think, afford a ready reply to this objection. They 
give gentlemen in the counties an ^opportunity to collect together for mutual in- 
formation ; they stimulate them to search the archives of their families, for those 
perishable materials of revolutionary and colonial story which may beguile a 
tedious winter night in their remote neighborhoods ; — they induce them to com- 
pare local information as to the natural advantages of their respective counties — 
and, finally, our citizens are certain that there is a safe depositoiy, where all this 
knowledge, which has afforded so much occupation and entertainment in the 
gathering, is safely kept and accessible to them whenever they come hereafter to 
the capital. 

We have cherished the hope, that in this manner every sectional feeling would 
be destroyedj'and that a sort of federal institution would be created, whose mem- 
bers, acting unitedly on the principles of a literary brotherhood, would emulate 
each other to bring to light the latent materials of their particular portions of Ma- 
ryland. 

In creating branches, therefore, in New York, you must be careful to avoid 
doing any thing which will estrange or give indlmduality, or the least separate- 
ness of character, to your county re-unions of members. The idea of their 
ONENESS with the parent board, must never be lost sight of; and, in fact, they 
must at all times be no more than so many useful streams — falling from the 
mountain, or meandering along the distant plain — all tending toward the larger 



178 



APPENDIX. 



river, whose waters they contribute unenviously and unostentatiously to swell 
with their tributes. 

I cannot but believe, that among men united for so purely an intellectual pur- 
pose as that of history, you will find none to thwart your noble views ; and, I 
assure you, that I shall feel very proud if your society shall see fit to adopt a plan 
from which we anticipate so much successful enterprise in Maryland. 

I beg you to pardon the hand-writing of this brief note, which I should have 
liked to extend, did my poor eyes permit me ; but I trust you will command me 
freely whenever I can serve you, and believe me to be ever yours faithfully. 

BRANTZ MAYER. 

To John Jay, Esq., &c. &.c. &c., New, York. 



FROBI MAJ. J. D. GRAHAM, OF THE U. S. ARMY. 

Washington, D. C. March 20, 1843. 
Hon. Albert Gallatin, President of the New York Historical Society : 

I beg leave to present, through you, to the New York Historical Society, for 
its library, the accompanying charts, maps and documents, viz : 

1. A chart of the city and harbor of Charleston, South Carolina, and of the 
surrounding country, in four sheets, on a scale of four inches to one mile, from 
surveys executed in the years 1823-24, and '25, by Harman Bache, Captain of 
Topographical Engineers, James D. Graham, Lieutenant 3d Artillery, C. M. 
Eakin, Lieutenant 2d Artillery, and William M. Boyce, Lieutenant 1st Infantry, 
in the U. S. Army. 

2. A chart of the northern extremity of Cape Cod, Mass., including the harbor 
of Provincetown, in four sheets, on a scale of six inches to one mile, from surveys 
executed in 1833 '34, and '35, under the direction of Major James D. Graham, 
of the corps of Topographical Engineers of the United States Army. 

3. A printed memoir, in folio, upon the mode of executing the said survey, 
embracing numerous tidal observations in a tabulated form, observed duiing the 
progress of that survey, by the same. 

4. A reduced copy of the above chart, in one sheet, on a scale of three inches 
to one mile, published under the patronage of the Boston Marine Insurance Com- 
panies, in 1841, by L. W. P. Lewis, of Boston. 

5. A chart of the entrance of Sandusky Bay, on Lake Erie, state of Ohio, in 
one sheet, on a scale of four inches to one mile, from surveys made in 1828, by 
Campbell Graham, Lieutenant 3d Regiment of Artillery in the U. S. Army. 

6. A chart of the entrance of the river Sabine, and of Sabine Pass, in one 
sheet, from surveys executed in 1840, under the direction of Major J. D. Gra- 
ham, of the United States Corps of Topographical Engineers, by Lieutenant 
Thomas J. Lee, of the said corps, and Captain P. J. Pillans, of the Texan Amry, 
attached to the joint commission for the demarkation of the boundary between 
the United States and Texas. 

7. A map of the river Sabine, from its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico, to Lo- 
gan's Ferry, near the 32d degree of north latitude, showing the boundary between 



APPENDIX. 179 

the United States and Texas, between those two points, as marked in 1840, by 
the joint commission appointed for that purpose by those two governments. 

8. A map in one small sheet, showing the continuation of the aforesaid boun- 
dary, from Logan's Ferry to the 32d degree of north latitude on the river Sabine, 
as marked in 1841, by the aforesaid joint commission. 

9. A map in three sheets, showing a continuation of the aforesaid boundary, 
by a due north line from the 32d degree of north latitude on the river Sabine, to 
the Red River ; as marked by the aforesaid joint commission, in the year 1841. 

10. A map on a reduced scale, showing in one sheet, the river Sabine from its 
mouth to Logan's Ferry, near the 32d degree of latitude, as specified in item 
No. 7. 

11. A map in 1 small sheet, showing on a reduced scale, the river Sabine from 
Logan's Ferry, to the 32d degree of north latitude, as specified in item No. 8. 

12. A map in 3 sheets, showing on a reduced scale, a continuance of said 
boundary by a due north line.fi-om the 32d degree of north latitude on the river 
Sabine, to the Red River, as specified in item No. 9. 

13. A printed copy of the correspondence of the commissioners charged with 
the demarcation of the aforesaid boundary, and of their journal, accompanying 
documents, &c. 

14. A profile with the spirit level, of the due north line from the monument at 
the source of the river St. Croix, to the river St. John, from surveys executed in 
the years 1840 and 1841, under the direction of the undersigned, while serving as 
one of the commissioners appointed under the act of Congress of July 20th, 1840, 
for surveying the north-eastern boundary of the United States, then in dispute 
with Great Britain ; 2 copies. 

Should you consider the foregoing as worthy a place in the library of the His- 
torical Society, over which you preside, I take leave to ask you to present them 
accordingly. 
With assurances of the highest consideration and respect, I am, sir. 
Your most obedient servant, 

JAMES D. GRAHAM. 



FROM PROFESSOR VON RAUMER, OP BERLIN. 

Boston, Sept. 15, 1844. 

Verehter Herr : Erlauben Sie mir, dass ich den vielfachen Dank den ich 
Ihnen schuldig bin, mit doppelter Herzlichkeit in meiner Muttersprache ausspre- 
che. Zuvorderst fiir die grosse Ehre niich unter die Mitglieder Hirer Gesellschaft 
aufgenommen zu haben ; dann fiir die giitige Uebersendung der lehrreichen 
Schriften dieser Gesellschaft ; endlich fiir all das Liebe und Gute, welches Sie 
mir in New York erzeigten. 

Die vereinte Thiitigkeit so vieler Gesellschaften in America, verbreitel mehr 
Licht iiber die friihere und neuere Geschichte dieses Landes, als man zu hoffen 
wagte, und aus so griindlichen Vorarbeiten miissen zuletzt auch geschichtliche 
Kunetwerke hen'orgehn. Moge nur auch durch verbreiteten Unterricht in den 



160 APPENDIX. 

Schulen, Sinn und Neigung fiir die Gescliichte iiberhaupt, immer mehr geweckt 
werden ; denn so wie die alte Welt von der grossartigen Entwickelung der 
vereinigten Staaten lernen soil, darf auch America den Faden nicht abreissen, 
der die Menschheit zu einem Ganzen verknupft. 

Nochmals, mit der grossten Auchtung und Dankbarkeit Ihr ergebenster, 

V. RAUMER. 

John Jay, Esq., Secretary of New York Historical Society. 

[translation.] 

Esteemed Sir : Allow me to express in my mother tongue, with double heart- 
felt cordiality, the many thanks I owe you ; first for having done me the great 
honor of receiving me among the members of your Society ; then for having 
kindly furnished me with the learned papers of that body ; and lastly, for all the 
kindness and goodness you have shown me in New York. 

The united activity of so many societies sheds more light on the early and 
recent histoiy of this country, than one might have ventured to hope ; and from 
such fundamental and preliminary labors scientific historical works must at 
last proceed. 

May a desire and inclination for history in general be more and more aroused 
through the improved state of scholastic instruction ; for as the old world has 
much to learn from the wonderful development of the United States, America 
also must never sever the tie which binds together all mankind in a common 
brotherhood. 

Again, with the greatest esteem and thanlifulness, your most obedient, 

V. RAUMER. 

Boston, Sept 15, 1844. 



FROM ROBERT GREENHOW, ESQ., OF WASHINGTON. 

Washington, City, Nov. 16, 1844. 

Sir : I received the letter by which you were so kind as to invite me to 
attend the meeting of the Historical Society on the — th instant, and it is with 
extreme regret that I find myself unable to enjoy the pleasure which I could not 
fail to derive from an assemblage of persons so distinguished, for objects so 
interesting to myself. I can therefore only request you, sir, to present to the 
Society, as a mark of my respect, a copy of my sketches of the " History of 
Tripoli and the other Barbary States," written a few years since. I hope ere 
long to be able to add to the Libraiy my " History of Oregon and California," 
with the accompanying map of the western division of our continent ; the fniits 
of long devotion to the subject, which, though for several months in print, has 
from peculiar circumstances not yet been published. 

Could I be present at the meeting, I should endeavor to engage the attention 
of the Society to a subject which would, I think, form a proper theme for its 
labors. I would recommend that some member or committee be charged to pre- 
pare a memoir on the discovery of the Atlantic Coasts of our Republic. Much 
has been recently collected and communicated to the world, by Biddle, Bancroft, 



APPENDIX. 181 

Graham, and others, on this interesting subject ; but the particulars of the dis- 
covery and exploration of many of the most important parts of those coasts, are 
only to be learned from the old writers by whom they were first made known to 
the public. In confirmation of this, I will ask, what recent work contains any 
account of the first discovery of Chesapeake Bay 1 though it is related, with 
enough of details to establish the facts, in a venerable volume which forms a part 
of your precious Library. 

Should you, sir, consider what I have said on this last point worthy of 
being submitted to the Society, and any measures taken by that body for the 
objects proposed, I shall be happy to aid in fiirthering them by any means in my 
power. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully. 

Your obedient servant, 

ROBERT GREENHOW. 
To Frederic De Peyster, Esq., Corresponding Secretary of the New York 

Historical Society. 



FROM MR. GEORGE A. WARD* 

To the Hon. Albert Gallatin, LL. D., 

President of the New York Historical Society. 

Dear Sir : Unable to give my early attendance at this evening's miereting, I 
beg to inclose a communication this day received by me, respecting the Hugue- 
nots who settled in Virginia. 

The history of such of that persecuted but admirable class as reached America, 
ought not to be lost, and to me it is an object of interest to gather whatever will 
illustrate it, even in a very partial degree. 

Ought we not to look to the descendants of the illustrious Jay for much matter 
relative to those who settled in New York ? and to the Bowdoins for a history 
of those who established a church in Boston, which was for many years under 
the charge of the Rev. Andrew Le Mercien 1 

Mr. Disosway, the gentleman who made the inclosed communication, in late 
researches on Staten Island, has discovered an illuminated parchment grant, made 
by Queen Anne, of lands of several miles in extent on the western part of that 
island, to sundry Huguenots who settled there, (among whom were ancestors of 
his) which document he will present to the Society at the next meeting. 
With profound respect, I am, dear sir. 
Your ob't servant. 



GEORGE A. WARD. 



New York, Dec. 3, 1844. 



New Yokr, Dec. 2, 1844. 
My Dear Sir, — With all the research that characterizes the historical investi- 
gations of this day, we know but little of that noble race, the Huguenots. A 
16 



182 



APPENDIX. 



succinct history of the French Protestants, before the French Revolution of 1789, 
would have been considered as libellous ; hence the almost general silence of 
French authority on the subject. But little is even known of the violence and 
persecutions at Nismes in 1815, and of those modern persecutions which then 
desolated the South of France. 

Their American history is also a work yet to be written ; but still we may 
gather up and preserve many valuable fragments for such an undertaking, import- 
ant as such a work will be at some day to the American people. 

As early as the year 1699, King William, then on the throne of England, en- 
couraged the emigration of the French Huguenots to his plantations in Virginia, 
and about 300 families emigrated the year following ; about two hundred more 
followed, and thus adding to their numbers, until between seven and eight hun- 
dred men, women and children fled from France to Virginia, on account of the 
reformed faith. 

The first emigrants settled on some rich lands about twenty miles above Rich- 
mond, on the south side of James river. The lands were formerly occupied by a 
powerful and warlike tribe of Indians, called the Monacans. This land still re- 
tains its name, and is now called the Monacan Town ; and an old church erected 
there is yet called the Monacan Church. 

Those who arrived the second year went also to the same place, but many of 
them dispersed about the neighboring country. The Assembly of Virginia pur- 
sued a Hberal course of policy to the settlers at the Monacan Town, making them 
large grants of money and provisions, and freeing them from all taxes for several 
years. They were celebrated for their industry in agriculture and the useful arts, 
manufacturing their own clothes. They distilled brandies and a wine from the 
wild grapes of the woods, which was a strong claret and of a curious flavor. I 
have recently ascertained the existence of a rare curiosity, formerly belonging to 
this settlement at the Monacan Town. It belongs to a gentleman in Petersburg, 
Va., and is a valuable Huguenot relic. I know of nothing of the kind except this 
in existence, and should your Historical Society deem it of sufficient importance, 
the article might possibly be obtained for its cabinet. 

It is entitled, " A Register containing the Baptisms made within the Church 
of the French Reformers, in the Manakin Town in Virginia, within the Parish 
of King William, in the year of our Lord 1721, the 20th of March. Done by 
Jacques Loblet, clerk." 

The Register contains about twenty-five pages of foolscap paper, written in 
French. I will give you, as a specimen of the whole, the following entries. The 
bad orthography, &c., is literally copied : 

" Jean Chostain, fils de Jean Chostain ett de Marianne Chostain, les pere et 
mere, nee le 23 de Septembre 1721, est baptise le 5 d'Octobre, par M. Fountaine. 
lis ava pour parain et marene Pierre David et A nne sa femme, le quels ont de 
claree que cest enfan est nee le jour et an que deshus. 

" Signee, JACQUE LOBLET, Clerk." 

" John Chostain, son of John Chostain and of Marianne Chostain, the father 
and mother, born the 26lh of September, 1721, was baptized the 5th of October, 



APPENDIX. 183 

by Mr. Fontaine.* He had for godfather and godmother Pierre David and 
Anne his wife, who have declared that this infant was born the day and year 
aforesaid. 

"Signed, JACQUE LOBLET, Clerk." 

Here is another: 

" Le 1 avril, 1740, est nee Marie Wattkins, fille de Stephen Wattkins et de 
Judith sa femme, a eu pour parain William Hampton, pour Marianne Magdelaine 
Chostain et Marie Farsi. 

"JEAN CHOSTAIN." 

"April 1, 1740, was born Mary, daughter of Stephen Wattkins and Judith 
his wife. She had for godfather William Hampton, for godmothers Magdalen 
Chostain and Mary Farsi. 

" JEAN CHOSTAIN." 

Other pages contain a record of deaths. This is one : 

" Le 29 de Janvier 1723-24, mourt le Sieur Anthoine Trabue, agee danviron 
sinquaint sik a sept annees fut enterree le 30 du meme mois. 

" J. LOBLET, Clerk." 

"January 29th, 1723-24, died Sir Anthony Trabue, aged about fifty-six or 
seven years. He was buried the 30th of the same month. 

" J. LOBLET, Clerk." 

I subjoin some of the names found in the Baptismal Register : 

David Monford Nerin, (minister,) Dupuy, Salle, Martain, Mallett, Guenant, 
Dupre, Bernard, Amonet, Goin, Rassine, Benin, Reno, Leseur, Pinnot, Sumpter, 
Jordan, Gavain, &c., &c. ; and these English names, probably introduced by 
intermarriage : Harris, Flomnoy, Ford, Wattkins, Cooke, Robinson, Edmon, 
Stanford, Smith, Williamson, Brook, &c., &c. 

They deserve credit for their attention, in these religious matters, to the 
negroes. In the same register of Baptisms, we find Thomberlin, (Northumber- 
land,) Joan, Jaque, Annibal, OUive, Robert, Jak, Susan, Primus, Moll, Pegg, 
Nanny, Tobie, Dorote, Agge, Pompe, Caesar, Amy, Johann, Tom, Harry, Cipio, 
Bosen, Sam, Tabb, Jupiter, Samson, Pope, Yarmouth, CuiTy, Robin, Diana, 
Ester, Tullis, Judy, Adam, &c., &c., &c. 

Intending to trouble you with only a few lines, and to direct the attention of 
your Society to the document in Virginia, my communication has run to several 
pages. I hope it may not be uninteresting to you, however. 
With kind regard, yours, 

GABRIEL P. DISOSWAY. 



* Note.— It is worthy of remembrance, that from this family, the Rev. Mr. Fontaine 
and his brother-in-law, the Rev. James Maury, have descended hundreds of the best citi- 
zens of old ,• Virginia, embracing ministers, members of fthe bar, legislators, and public 
officers. Another Huguenot minister of the same name, and probably related to the one 
referred to, embarked with his wife and five children for America. When in sight of 
Boston, they all perished at sea. A relative of the family thus writes at that day: "We 
may with great justice reckon seven persons among the martyrs of our family; for they 
come out of France, abandoning a very good property for the fruit of the tree of life, for the 
leaves and the bark." 



SUPPLEMENT, 



ANNUAL MEETING, JANUARY 7, 1845. 

I 



FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT IN THE CHAIR. 



The following gentlemen were elected officers for the en- 
suing year : — 

Hon. ALBERT GALLATIN, LL. D., President. J 

Hon. LUTHER BRADISH, Firsi Vice-President. 

Rev. THOMAS DE WITT, D. D., Second Vice President. 

CYRUS MASON, D. D., Treasurer. 

JOHN R. BARTLETT, Foreign Corresponding Secretary. 

JOHN JAY, Domestic Corresponding Secretary. 

JOHN BIGELOW, Recording Secretary. 

GEORGE GIBBS, Librarian. 

The annual Reports of the Executive Committee, Libra- 
rian and Treasurer, were severally read and ordered to be 
published. 

Dr. Thomas Ward read the following Poem, prepared 
by him for the Anniversary Celebration : — 

THE ROMANCE OF AMERICAN HISTORY. 



There are who doubtless deem it justly said 

That fact with poesy should never wed : 

That the rash ardor which the bard inspires 

Disturbs the calm, true History requires : 

Who draws from Nature, and her matchless hues 

Need no intrusive touches of the Muse : 

Which mar, though graceful, and offend, though smooth, 

The Greek simplicity of sober truth. 



SUPPLEMENT. 185 

'Tis just — when Fancy, passing lawful bounds, 
The fair proportions of the truth confounds ; 
Not, when she simply to the light would hold, 
And crown the picture with her frame of gold ; 
And reasons throng me why the Muses twain, 
That o'er the realms of fact, and fancy reign. 
Would search the heart more surely hand in hand, 
And rule more widely with a twin command. 
So thought the Greek : and in his lofty love 
Would have them sisters, sired by mighty Jove, . 
And for a brother gave the God of sono- — 
May his high fantasy survive him long ! 
And the fair sisters, linking art with art, 
Still sway the common empire of the heart ! 
Still — sober History with style severe 
On brazen tablet grave her record clear ; 
While song all-glowing melts the heart of youth 
To take the sovereign impress of the truth. 

In sooth, historic pictures might be shown 

So richly bright with splendors all their own 

That wildest Fancy scarce could tint so high : 

As sun-born rainbows would a Claude defy. 

Not travelled Fiction from her starry range 

Can tales rehearse than History's own, more strange : 

Whose record, various with all human ill, 

Rivals romance in every power to thrill. 

Nay — I am bold to proffer to disclose 

From the full chronicle of human woes — 

Of human trial — human enterprise — 

More hardy venture, more self-sacrifice. 

Heroic virtue in a righteous cause. 

Patience in shame — forbearance in applause. 

Garnished with scenes more rare from Nature's reign, 

Than lawless Fancy in her cups could feign. 

To look no further down the slope of time — 
Whate'er of wondrous, chivalrous, sublime, 
Romance could fable, shall outrivalled prove 
By the strange stoiy of the land we love. 
16* 



186 SUPPLEMENT. 

Take first the scene wherein she sprang to birth^ 

And rose a wonder to the startled earth : 

For dim, nnysterious ages did she lie, 

And bare her waste of beauties to the sky. 

A dream, a hope, a fable, all unknown — 

Save to the bard's far-seeing eye alone : 

Earth had grown old in empire's dull decay 

Before the bold world-hunter to the day 

Revealed her treasures : Lo ! upon the main 

His bark is, launched — through struggling years of paiii 

Master at length of action, and the way : 

The sneer of fools, the life-long, sick delay, 

The tardy aid of princes — all o'ercome. 

Behold him battling with the storm, and foam, 

The mutinous crew — the frightful waste unknown — ■ 

Fame, fortune staked, and nations, gazing on. 

No picture in the annals of our kind 

So marks the ruling majesty of mind, 

As lone Columbus following the sun : 

By the Great Thought sustained, that led him on.. 

True to the light, that, beckoning to the west, 

Like Israel's pillar points the promised rest, 

Cheering his bosom as the pressing gale 

Still onward — onward drives his constant sail. 

How leaped that noble heart, as on the west 

In anxious gaze, like lover all unblest 

He stood — when sudden through the dusk afar 

A light ! — and what ? — a torch ? — or but a star ? — 

Aye ! — 'tis a star — a world ! — the strife is past, 

And genius triumphs in the proof at last. 

No art may counterfeit that blushing land, 
All fresh, and virgin from the Maker's hand : 
The isles of beauty, ^yith their groves of balm> 
The idle seas, the skies' perennial calm ; 
All fruits, all flowers of Nature's lavish prime 
Steeped in the rapture of voluptuous clime t 

Go read the story in the graceful dress 

Of our own faultless Irving — whom God bless !: — 



SUPPLEMENT. 187 

And own his cunning pencil never drew 
A sketch so wondrous — yet, so surely true. 

Now, from these golden regions of the sun 
Turn we to ruder scenes, and triumphs won 
On stern New England's iron-fronted shore : 
Frightful with storms, and baffled ocean's roar. 

Behold ! — new-landed, houseless, on the strand, 
Bare to the icy blast, a pilgrim band : 
Old men, young maidens, children, side by side 
With strenuous manhood, their defence and guide : 
A solemn group upon the rocky verge — 
Before — the savage, and behind — the surge : 
By cruel beasts, and more rapacious man 
Opposed, with heartless winter in the van. 
But what are foes, or obstacles to thee ? 
Unprisoned wanderer ! since the mind is free — 
He bares his manly forehead to the sky, 
In thanks for woes that bring him liberty ; 
And his full anthem sw&llows in its flood 
Remorseless winter howling through the wood : 
" Rent, the rude links of Europe's galling chain ! 
Burst, the long trammels of the bigot's reign ! 
The dreariest wild where Freedom lights her shrine 
Already blooms — the praise, O God ! be thine !" 

Now mark a picture on a scale more vast ! — 
For nioral grandeur, noblest of the past. 
No gallant venture, with its own wild charms — 
No tome-heroic enterprise of arms — 
A crisis, heroes vainly would control — 
That claims the stoutest sinews of the soul. 
'Twas when our Great First Senate, on the brink 
Of published freedom, paused — but not to shrink — 
Paused their deep wrongs full measure to review, 
For so long years that ever gathering grew : 
Remonstrance, prayer, petition, all in vain — 
Oppressioa but more tightly drew the chain :. 



188 SUPPLEMENT. 

At length, the Great Necessity, long fed 

With daily wrongs, swelled — that the brimming head 

Lacked but the final drop to overflow : 

That drop at Lexington was shed — and now 

The hour is come to cleave the cramping chain, 

And loose their fortunes to the stormy main. 

Tremendous moment ! teeming with the doom 

Of shadowy nations yet within the womb. 

Solemn, in silence awful, and profound 

The Fathers sit in majesty around : 'M 

Resolved, not rash ; — for wisely had they weighed 

The power they braved, the stake., the hopeless aid : 

Unmoved, not senseless ; — for at heart they wring 

With the sure woes success itself must bring : 

And now they rise to cast their load of ill — 

And with an impulse of courageous will, 

Mightier than Caesar's when he leaped the line, 

Defying augury and Rome — they sign ! 

The bond is rent, and perish or prevail, 

The bark of Freedom drives before the gale ! 

The time would fail me — and the skill indeed — 
To paint the crowding terrors that succeed ; 
Th' invasion, strife, retreat, the wide dismay. 
The flying Senate, the victorious fray. 
The flame, the pillage of the hireling foe, 
The dreadful winter — the desponding woe — 
Privation, treason — all the trials sore 
The faithful army and their leader bore — 
Their peerless leader ! — he, whose household name 
No mention needs — that won them more than fame. 

Nor need I dwell on later wreaths than these 
Wrung from the High Dictatress of the seas : 
Who scattered wreck her panic foes among, 
And with the iron thunder of her tongue 
Silenced the world, that truckled like a slave, 
And rode sublime the undisputed wave. 
Then, fired with wrongs our little Navy spake — 
That from the strongest would no insult take — 



I 



I 



SUPPLEMENT. 189 

But sought as boldly as an equal foe : 

Confronting, closing, dealing blow for blow — 

Matching the giant's strength with desperate zeal. 

That every pellet of her iron hail 

Winged with young Freedom's earnest shout, sank home 

In virgin timbers, never yet o'ercome. 

And now with well earned pride she rears her crest, 

And towers among her peers : or, moored at rest. 

Mute as the sea-bird after stormy times. 

Rocks on all waves, familiar to all climes. 

'Tis not alone the past, so strangely true, 

Dishonors fiction, but the future too — 

The soaring future of the land we prize ! — 

For man's last dwelling shall the proudest rise. 

Go stand in fancy on the lordly side 

Of Alleghanian mountains : mark the tide 

Of streaming millions, spread with endless trail 

To take their places in that mighty vale — 

Swelling, and surging onward without rest. 

Topping the rocky barrier of the west 

'Till far Pacific bounds the torrent's reach, 

Beating with steady pulse, along the solemn beach. 

Hark ! from the swarming hosts, along the breeze, 
Not loud, but vast, a voice like murmuring seas : — 
And Id ! a vision, flush with golden flame — 
Domes, marble cities, monuments of fame — 
A people numberless as now the leaves 
That roof their forests — all that peace achieves, 
Trophies of art — of science, still unfold — 
Chaos of unimagined glories, hold ! — 
For reason's eye is baffled with the glare, 
And fancy drops her pencil in despair ! 

My task is finished : — proving as I hope — 
If proof may ripen in so brief a scope — ' 

More rare romance is wedded with the true 
Than braggart Fancy ever dreamed, or drew. 



190 SUPPLEMENT. 

Fain would I hope we ne'er, without avail, 

May list the briefest version of our tale : 

But feel at all the struggles of the state 

How much it needs to make a people great j 

And as our fathers' triumphs we review, 

Ask of our hearts if nought from us be due : — 

If theirs the high commission of the skies 

To win of land, and liberty the prize, 

Our own, though haply of an humbler strain, 

Is no less truly vital — to sustain. 

Such be our worthy purpose — come what must — 

With hand, head, heart to keep the sacred trust ! 

O ! who can stand upon the solemn ground, 
By such a past — by such a future bound — 
By all the charms encircled, soft, or grand, 
That make a wonder of his native land. 
Nor with devotion prove her high control — 
Nor feel the noble impulse thrill the soul. 
To add one leaflet to her laurelled name — 
One stone to pile her pyramid of fame ! 



The Vice President having left the Chair, it was taken 
at the request of the Society, by Hon. Benjamin P. Butler, 
and on the motion of Hon. William W. Campbell, the fol- 
lowing resolution was unanimously adopted : — 

Resolved, That this Society tender their thanks to William 
Beach Lawrence, Esq., for the faithful manner in which he 
has discharged the duties of First Vice President during the ' 
many years in which he has filled that office. 

Mr. Lawrence briefly expressed his acknowledgments 
and the Society adjourned. 



EXECXTTIVB COMMITTEE. 

APPOINTED BY THE PRESIDENT FOR THE YEAR 1845. 

PROSPER M. WETMORE, Chairman, 
EDWARD ROBINSON, D. D., 
ERASTUS C. BENEDICT, 
HENRY R. SCHOOLCRAFT, 
WILLIAM BEACH LAWRENCE, 
FREDERIC DE FEYSTER, 
JOHN R. BRODHEAD. 

The officers of the Society are ex-officio members of this Committee. 



I 



MEMBERS 

OF THE 

NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

i FEBRUARY, 1845. 



RESIDENT. 



Abbott, Rev. G. D. 
Abbott, Rev. Jacob 
*Abeel, John Nelson, D. D. 
Adams, William, D. D. 
Adriance, Isaac 
Agnew, Rev. J. Holmes 
Andrews, Rev. Edward W. 
Anthon, Henry, D. D. 
Anthon, John 
Amory, Jonathan 
Aspinwall, William H. 
Ashley, James, M. D. 
Astor, John Jacob 
Astor, William B. 

*Backus, Azel, D. D. 
Bailey, John J. 
^Baldwin, Charles 
Baldwin, Micah 
Baldwin, Simeon 
Baretto, Francis 
Barron, Thomas 
Bartlett, Edwin 
Bartlett, John R. 



*Bassett, John, D. D. 

*Bayard, Samuel 

*Bayard, William 

Beakley, Jacob, M. D. 

Beals, Samuel J. 

Bean, M. Dudley 

Bedell, Rev. Gregory T. 

Bedford, Gunning S., M. D. 

Beebee, Samuel J. 

Beebee, Welcome R. 

Beekman, James W. 

Beers, Joseph D. 

Bell, George 

Benedict, Abner 

Benedict, Erastus C. 

*Benson, Hon. Egbert, LL. D. 

*Berrian, Samuel 

Betts, Hon. Samuel R., LL. D. 

Betts, William 

Bidwell, Marshall S., LL. D. 

Bigelow, Horatio 

Bigelow, John 

*Blatchford, Rev. Henry 

*Bleecker, Anthony 



17 



* Deceased. 



194 



MEMBEES OF THE 



*Bleecker, William 
Bliss, James C, M. D. 
Bloodgood, S. De Witt 
fBlunt, Joseph 
*Bogart, Rev. David S. 
*Bogert, John G. 
Bolton, Robert, Jr. (East Chester. 
Boorman, James 
Borrowe, Jacob H., M. D. 
Bosworth, Joseph S. 
*Bowden, John, D. D. 
*Bowen, Rt. Rev. Nath., D. D. 
*Boyd, Samuel 
*Brackett, Joseph W. 
Bradford, Alexander W. 
Bradish, Hon. Luther 
Bradsur, J. D. 
Brett, Gustavus A. 
Brevoort, J. Carson 
Brigham, Joseph 
f Brodhead, John R. 
*Bronson, Isaac 
Bronson, Oliver, M. D. 
Brooks, Joshua 
Brown, Gardiner S. 
fBrown, James 
Brown, Thomas 
*Bruce, Archibald, M. D. 
*Buchanan, Walter W., M. D. 
fBucknor, William G. 
*Bullus, John 
Bulkley, Thomas, Jr. 
*Bunner, Rudolph 
Burritt, Francis 
*Busby, Charles A. 
*Bushnell, Campbell 
Bushnell, Orsamus 
Butler, Benj. F., LL. D. 
Butler, Charles 



Butler, Charles E, ' 
Butler, George B. 

Campbell, William W. 
Case, George (New Rochelle.) 
Catlin, George 
)Catherwood, Frederic 
Chauncey, Henry 
Chauncey, William 
*Chester, John, D. D. 
Childs, Samuel R., M. D. 
Childs, Heman W. 
*Chilton, Charles 
*Chilton, George 
Choules, Rev. John Overton 
fClark, Gerardus 
*Clark, Thomas 
*Clarkson, Gen. Matthew 
*Clement, James 
Cleveland, Augustus 
^Clinton, De Witt, LL. D. 
Clinton, Charles A. 
fClowes, Rev. Timothy 
Cobb, Lyman 
Cooley, James Ewing 
Coit, Joshua 

Cogswell, Joseph G., LL. D. 
*Colden, C. D., LL. D. 
Colden, David C. 
*Coles, Benjamin U. 
*Cooper, William 
fCollins, Thomas 
Cotheal, Alexander J. 
*Cowdrey, Samuel 
Cozzens, Abraham M. 
Crosby, John P. 
Curtis, Edward 
Curtis, George 
Cutting, Francis B. 



t Life Members. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



195 



*Cutting, William 

Daly, Hon. Charles P. 

*Da Ponte, Lorenzo L. 

Darby, William 

Davies, Henry E. 

Davis, Chas. Aug. 

Davis, Thomas A. 

Day, Sherman 

De Kay, George C. 

De Kay, James E., M, D. 

Deming, Henry C. 

*De Peyster, Frederic 

f De Peyster, Frederic 

De Peyster, James F. 

*Depuy, Cornelius E., M. D. 

Devereux, John C, Jr. 

*De Witt, Simeon 

De Witt, Thomas, D. D. 

Dickinson, Richard W., D. D. 

Dillon, Robert J. 

Dodge, Robert 

Dorr, Henry C. 

Dorr, Francis 0. 

*Dougherty, Addison 

Douglas, Jonathan H. 

Draper, Prof. J. W., M. D. 

Draper, Simeon 

Dubois, Cornelius, Jr. 

Duer, John 

*Dunlap, William 

Duyckinck, Evert A. 

fDurand, A. B. 

Dwight, Henry, Jr. 

•fDwight, Theodore 

Dwight, Theodore, Jr. 

*Dyckman, Jacob, M. D. 

Earle, Pliny, M. D. 



*Eastburn, James 

Eastburn, Rt. Rev. M,, D. D. 

Ebbetts, J. J. A. 

*Eddy, Caspar Wistar,^M. D. 

*Eddy, John 

*Eddy, John H. 

*Eddy, Thomas 

*Edgar, William 

*Edgar, William Jr. 

Edmonds, Francis W. 

Edmonds, John W. 

Edwards, Henry P. 

*Emmet, Thomas Addis 

Emmet, Thomas Addis 

Endicott, George 

Endicott, William 

Evarts, William M. 

Fairman, William 
*Fay, Joseph D. 
Fellows, Richard S. 
Ferguson, Jordan G 
Fessenden, Thomas 
Field, Benjamin H. 
Field, David D. 
fField, Hickson W. 
JField, H. W., Jr. 
Field, Osgood 
Fish, H m. Hamiltoa 
*Fish, Witehead 
Fisk, Jonathan 
Fleming, Augustus 
Folsom, George 
*Forbe , John 
*Forry, Samuel, M. D. 
Foster, Charles W. 
Foster, Frederick G. 
Foster, Samuel H., Jr. 
Fowler, Joseph 



196 



MEMBERS OF THE 



fFrancis, John W., M. D. 
*Francis, Henry M., M. D. 
Frelinghuysen, T., LL. D. 
Fuller, Hiram 
*Fulton, Robert 
Furman, Gabriel 

*Gahn, Henry 

•j-Gallatin, Albert, LL. D. 

Gallatin, Albert, R. 

Gallatin, James 

Gardiner, Samuel S. 

Gardner, C. K. 

*Gibbs, Col. George 

f Gibbs, George 

Goodhue, Jonathan 

tGoodrich, A. T. 

Gracie, Robert 

*Gracie, William 

*Graham, John 

*Graham, John A., LL. D. 

Graham, John L. 

*Graves, Roswell, M. D. 

Gray, John F., M. D. 

Greacen, James R., M. D. 

Green, Horace, M. D. 

Greene, John C. 

Greenhow, Robert 

Griffing, Samuel 

fGriscom, John, M. D., LL. D. 

Griswold, George C. 

Haggerty, John 
*Haight, Benjamin 
Haight, Benjamin L, D. D. 
*Haines, Charles G. 
Hall, Willis 
Hallett, William P. 
Halliday, Edward C. 
Hamilton, John C. 



Hammersley, Andrew S. 

*Harris, William, D. D. 

Harris, Townsend 

Harvey, Jacob 

Hatch, George W. 

*Hawes, William P. 

Hawks, Francis L., D. D. 

^Henderson, William 

Henry, Prof. Caleb S., D. D. 

fHerring, James 

Herring, Thomas 

f Herring, William 

Hicks, Henry W. 

Hicks, Samuel M. 

Hilger, Maurice 

*Hobart, Rt. Rev. J. H., D. D. 

Hobart, Dayton 

Hoffman, Charles Fenno 

Hoffman, Ogden 

Hoffman, Murray 

*Hopkins, S. M.', LL. D. 

Hoppin, William J. 

Hone, John 

fHone, Philip 

Horn, William T. 

*Hosack, Alexander, M. D. 

Hosack, Alexander H., M. D. 

*HosACK, David, M. D., F. R. S. 

Howe, Josiah 

Howland, Samuel S. 

*Hunn, John S. 

Hunt, Freeman 

Hunter, Charles F. 

Hurlburt, Elisha P. 1 

Ingraham, Hon. D. P. 
Inglis, William 
In man, Henry 
*Inskeep, Abraham H. 
flrving, Washington, LL. D. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



197 



*Ives, Ansell W., M. D. 

Jackson, William H., M. D. 

Jarvis, Jay 

*Jarvis, John Wesley 

fJarvis, Samuel F., D. D., LL. 

Jaudon, Samuel 

*Jay, John, LL. D. 

fJay, John 

Jay, John C, M. D. 

*Jay, Peter Augustus, LL. D. 

Jay, Hon. William 

Jenny, Ephraim H. 

Jones, David S. 

Jones, George 

*Jones, Rev. Cave 

Jones, James I. 

*Jones, John Q. 

*Jones, Samuel 

fjones, Hon. Samuel, LL. D. 

Johnson, Alexander 

Johnson, William Samuel 

f Johnson, William, LL. D. 

Johnston, John 

Keese, John 
*Kemp, John, LL. D. 
Kelly, Robert E. 
Kelly, William 
Kennedy, David S. 
fKENT, James, LL. D. 
*Kermit, Henry 
fKing, Charles 
King, Charles R., M. D. 
*King, Frederic G., M. D. 
j-King, John Alsop 
*King, Rufus, LL. D. 
Kingsland, Richards 
Kinney, Franklin S. 
Kip, Rev. William J. 
17* 



Kissam, Richard S., M. D. 
Knapp, Shepherd 
*Kunze, John C, D. D. 



Laight, Edward W. 
D. Laight, Henry 

*Lambert, David R. 
Lane, Josiah 

*Lawrence, Augustine H. 
*Lawrence, John 
Lawrence, John L. 
Lawrence, John S. 
Lawrence, Thomas 
*Lawrence, William 
fLawrence, William Beach 
Lawrence, Richard M. 
Lawson, James 
Lee, Charles A., M. D. 
Lee, James 
Lenox, James 
Leupp, Charles M. 
*Lewis, General Morgan 
Lewis, Prof. Tayler, LL. D. 
*Lewis, Zachariah 
Ledyard, Henry 
*Lion, William, D. D. 
*Livingston, B., LL. D. 
Livingston, Cambridge 
Livingston, Charles L. 
*Livingstoii, E., LL. D. 
*Livingston, Edward P. 
*Livingston, John H,, D. D. 
*Livingston, R. R., LL. D. 
Logan, Adam D. 
*Lorillard, Jacob 
Lord, Rufus L. 
Low, Cornelius 
*Ludlow, John C. 
Ludlow, Thomas W. 
Lydig, Philip M. 



198 



MEMBERS OF THE 



Macdonald, James, M. D. 
Macdonald, John 
Macdonald, John M. 
*Macneven, Wm. Jas., M. D. 
*Macomb, Robert 
Mackenzie, Alex. S., U. S. N. 
f Marchant, Edward D. 
Marx, Henry 
Mason, Prof. Cyrus, D. D. 
Mason, Erskine, D. D. 
*Mason, John 
Mason, John L. 
*Mason, John M., D.D. 
■j-Mathews, James, M., D. D. 
McMurray, William 
McKeon, John 
*McKesson, John 
*McLeod, Alexander, D. D. 
McVean, Charles 
McVickar, Prof. John, D. D. 
*Mercein, Thomas R. 
*Meyer, John 
fMiller Samuel, D. D. 
* Miller, Edward, M. D. 
■j-Miller, Silvanus 
*Mitchell, Sam'l L., M.D., LL. 
*Moore, Rt. Rev. Benj., D. D 
Morell, George W. 
Morgan, Matthew 
*MoRRis, Gouverneur 
Morris, Gouverneur 
Morris, Gerard W. 
■j-Morris, Thomas 
*Morton, Gen. Jacob 
Mott, Valentine, M. D. 
Mulligan, Henry S. 
fMulligan, John W. 
*Mumford, Gurdon S. 
Mumford, William W. 
Murray, George W., M. D. 



*Murray, John, Jr 
Murray, James B. 
Murray, John B. 
•j- Murray, John R. 
Murray, Robert I. 

Neilson, Anthony B. 
fNeilson, William 
Neilson, William H. 
Nevins, Russell H. 
Nevins, David H. 
Nicoll, Henry 
Noah, Mordecai M. 
tNott, Eliphalet, D. D. 
Noyes, William Curtis 

fOgden, David B. 
Ogden, J. De Peyster 
Ogden, Richard H. 
*Ogilvie, Rev. J. G. 
Olmsted, Francis 
*Osborn, John C, M. D. 
O'Sullivan, John L. 

Packwood, Samuel 
D. Palmer, Aaron H. 
Palmer, John J. 
Parker, Rev. B. C. C. 
Parker, Willard, M. D. 
Partridge, James H. 
Paulding, James K. 
•j-Paulding, William, Jr. 
Pearson, Isaac Green 
Peck, Rev. Isaac 
Peckham, Walton H. 
Peet, Harvey P. 
Pell, Ferris 
Pell, R. Livingston 
^Pendleton, Nathaniel 
fPendleton, Edmund, Jr. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



199 



Pendleton, Edmund H. 
^Pendleton James, M. D. 
*Perkins, Benjamin D. 
*Perkins, Richard D. 
Perkins, Cyrus, M. D. 
Peters, Absalom, D. D. 
Peters, John R. 
Phalen, James 
Phillips, William W., D. D. 
Pickett, Albert 
Pickett, John W. 
Pierrepont, Henry E. 
*tPintard, John, LL. D. 
*Platt, James Kent, M. D. 
Post, Alfred C, M. D. 
Post, Minturn, M. D. 
Post, Waldron, B. 
*Post, Wright, M. D. 
Potts, George, D. D. 
fPowell, William H. 
Powers, William P. 
Prime, Rev. Samuel J. 
Putnam, George P. 
Putnam, R., M. D. 

tQuitman, Fred. H., M. D. 

*Rafinesque, Prof. C. 
Rapelje, Silvanus 
*Ray, Richard 
*Remmey, John 
Remsen, Henry 
*Remsen, Peter 
Rhinelander, William C. 
Richards, Edgar U. 
Richmond, Rev. William 
*Riker, Richard 
Robbins, George S. 
Robinson, Prof. E., D. D., LL. 
Robinson, Beverly 



Rockwell, William, M. D. 
•fRodgers, Benjamin Woolsey 
Rogers, J. Smyth, M. D. 
*Romayne, Nicholas, M. D. 
*Romeyn, John B., D. D. 
fRoosevelt, Isaac, M. D. 
Ross, William M., M. D. 
Rudd, John C. 
Ruggles, Samuel B. 
fRussell, Archibald 
Russell, Charles H. 
Russell, Richard F. 
*Rutherford, John 
Rutherford, Walter 

*Sampson, William 
Sandford; Charles W. 
Sanford, Edward 
*Sanford, Nathan 
*Sands, Robert C. 
Saunders, Frederick 
Savage, Cornelius 
*Schaeffer, Rev. Fred. Chas. 
Schell, Augustus 
Schell, Richard 
Schermerhorn, Peter 
fSchultz, Christian, Jr. 
*Seaman, John E. 
^Sedgwick, Henry D. 
*Sedgwick, Robert 
Sedgwick, Theodore 
Selden, Dudley 
Sheldon, Frederick, Jr. 
Sherwood, John D. 
*Simond, Louis 
Sistare, Horace 
Smith, James O., M. D. 
Smith, John Adams 
D. Smith, Joseph W. 
Smith, Jotham 



200 



MEMBERS OF THE 



*Smith, Lemuel 
Smith, William H. 
Sommers, Thomas S. 
*Spafford, H. Gates, LL. D. 
Spier, Gilbert M. 
Spofford, Paul 
Spofford, Paul N. 
Stebbins, Henry G. 
Stephens, John L. 
Stetson, Charles A. 
Stevens, Alexander H., M. D. 
Stevens, John Austin 
Stewart, F. Campbell, M. D. 
Stewart, James B. 
*Stoddard, Amos 
*fStone, William L. 
Strong, Edward A. 
Strong, George Tr 
*Stoughton, James 
Sturges, Jonathan 
*Stuyvesant, Nicholas W. 
•j-Stuyvesant, Peter Gerard 
Suydam, Lambert 
Suydam, D. Lydig 
•j-Swan, Benjamin L. 

Tallmadge, James, LL. D. 
*Tallmadge, M. B. 
Tappan, Edward A. 
Taylor, Rev. William 
Tellkampf, Prof. Louis J. 
*Thomas, Robert 
♦Thompson, James 
♦Thompson, Jeremiah 
♦Thompson, William A. 
fThompson, C. Giovanni 
Tilden, Samuel J. 
Tomes, Francis, Jr. 
♦Tompkins, Daniel D. 
-J-Townsend, Elihu 



♦Trumbull, Col. John 
Turner, Prof. Sam. H., D. D. 

Van Alen, JohnT. 
Van Beuren, John D. 
Van Cott, Joshua M. 
♦Van Cortlandt, Philip 
Van Heuvel, Jacob A. 
♦Van Hook, William A. 
♦Van Ness, William P. 
Van Nest, John 
Van Norden, William 
Van Rensselaer, Philip S. 
♦Van Rensselaer, Stephen 
,Van Rensselaer, William P. 
Van Schaick, Garrat C. 
♦Varick, Richard 
fVerplanck, G.C., LL.D. 
♦Verplanck, Johnston 
Verplanck, Samuel 

Waddell, W. C. H. 
fWainwright, J. M., D. D. 
Walter, Rev. Wm. H. 
Ward, Augustus H. 
Ward, Elijah 
Ward, George A. 
♦Ward, Henry 
Ward, Henry Hall 
f Ward, John 
♦Ward, Samuel 
Ward, Samuel 
Ward, Thomas, M. D. . 

Waring, Samuel 
Warner, Andrew 
Warren, Winslow, M. D. 
Washington, J. A., M. D. 
♦Watts, John M. D. 
Webb, James Watson 
Weeks, J. Abeel 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



201 



Weir, Robert W. 
Weld, H. Hastings 
Welford, Charles 
*Wells, John 
West, Charles E. 
fWetmore, Prosper M. 
Wetmore, William S. 
*Weyman, John W. 
fWheaton, Hon. Henry, LL. D. 
MHiitehead, William A. 
Whitlock, Samuel H. 
*Wilkes, Charles 
Wilkins, Gouverneur M. 
*Willet, Col. Marinus 
*Williams, Col. Jonathan 
Williams, Stephen C. 
* Williamson, Hugh, M.D„ LL. D, 
Wilmerding, William E. 
*Wilson, George 



*Wilson, Peter, LL. D. 
Wilson, William 
Winthrop, Benjamin R. 
*Winthrop, Francis B. 
Winthrop, Henry R. 
Winthrop, John S. 
Winthrop, Thomas C. 
Wolcott, Frederic H. 
*Wolcott, Oliver, LL. D. 
Wolfe, Christopher 
Wright, Amariah W. 
Wright, Henry A , 
Wright, William 
WyckofF, Alexander R. 

Young, Edmund M. 

Zabriskie, Albert G. 
Zabiiskie, Martin R. 



202 



MEMBERS OF THE 



CORRESPONDING.* 



Arnold, Samuel Greene, 

Bacon, E. Champion, 
Barnard, Henry, 2d, 
Bleecker, Hon. Harmanus, 
Bogart, William H., 
Bowditch, Nathaniel L., 
Brown, Henry, 
Brown, John Carter, 

Gary, Edward L., 
Colton, George H. 
Gonant, Marshall, 
Gruikshank, N., 

Davis, Thomas T., 
De Hass, Wills, 
De Zwaan, 

Dickinson, Hon. D. S., 
Dillingham, William H., 
Disosway, Gabriel P., 

Gebherd, John, 
Gliddon, George R., 
Grattan, Thomas Colley, 
Griswold, Rev. Rufus W., 

Hale, Benjamin, D. D., 
Haring, Clinton, 
Haven, Samuel F., 
Hosmer, Hezekiah S., 
Hosmer, Wm. H. C, 

Jones, Rev. Isaac, 

Kirtland, Jared P., M. D., 



Providence, Rhode Island. 

Litchfield, Connecticut. 

Hartford, " 

Albany. 

Ithaca. 

Boston. 

Chicago, Illinois. 

Providence, Rhode Island, 

Philadelphia. 

Framingham, Mass. 
Ohio. 

Syracuse. 

Pomeroy, Meigs Co., Ohio. 

The Hague, Netherlands. 

Binghampton. 

Philadelphia. 

Staten Island. 

Schoharie. 

Egypt. 

H. B. M. Consul, Boston. 

Philadelphia. 

Geneva. 

Detroit, Michigan. 

Worcester, Mass. 
Perrysburgh, Ohio. 
Avon. 

Litchfield, Connecticut. 

Cleveland, Ohio. 



* The Class of Corresponding Members was established, March 7, 1843. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



203 



I 



Law, Hon. John, 
Lovejoy, E., M. D., 

Matthias, John T., 
Mayer, Brantz, 
Maxwell, Thomas, 
Miles, Pliny, 
Moore, Jacob Bailey 
Morgan, Christopher, 
Morrison, Hon. William, 

O'Rielly, Henry, 

Paine, Robert Treat, 
Penington, John, 
Poore, Benjamin P., 
Potter, Alonzo, D. D., 
Pruyn, J. V. L., 

Randall, S. S., 
Rankin, Robert G., 

Sampson, William B., 
Saunders, Edwin, 
Scoresby, William, D. D., 
Smith, Henry K., 
Stevens, Henry, Jr., 
Street, Alfred B., 
Sumner, Charles, 
Swetland, William, 

Thom, Robert, 
Thompson, Benjamin F., 
Townsend, Isaiah, 
Trumbull, James H., 
Turner, Levi C, 

Washburn, Emory, 
Webster, Prof. Horace, LL, 
*Webster, Horace B., 
Whitney, Asa, 

Yates, Giles F., 



D., 



Vincennes, Indiana. 
Owego. 

Philadelphia. 

Baltimore, Maryland. 

Chemung. 

Watertown 

Washington, D. C. 

Aurora. 

Key West. 

Albany. 

Boston. 

Philadelphia. 

Paris. 

Schenectady. 

Albany. 

Albany. 
Matteawan. 

London. 

London. 

England. 

Buffalo. 

Boston. 

Albany. 

Boston. 

Plattsburg. 

China. 

Hempstead, Long Island. 

Albany. 

Stonington, Connecticut. 

Cleveland, Ohio. 

Worcester, Massachusetts. 

Geneva. 

Albany. 

Canton, China. 

Schenectady. 



204 



MEMBERS OF THE 



HONORARY. 

*Adams, John, President United States. 
Adams, John Quincy, President United States. 

*Adams, Jasper, D. D., South Carolina. 

*A!den, Timothy, D, D., Pennsylvania. 

Alexander, Sir James Edward, British Army. 

Allen, William, D. D., Massachusetts. 

*Allston, Washington, Massachusetts. 

Anderson, Andrew, M. D., Edinburgh. 

Antinori, Cavalier Vincenzio, Italy. 

Amici, Cav. Giovanni B., Italy. 

Amici, Dr. Vincenzio, Italy. 

Arfwedson, Charles David, Sweden. 



Bacon, Leonard, D. D., Connecticut. 

Bancroft, George, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

*Banks, Sir Joseph, London. 

*Bard, Samuel, M. D., LL. D. New York. 

Barlow, Timothy, Missouri. 

Barstow, Gamaliel H., New York. 

Beck, Lewis C, Mississippi. 

Beck, T. Romeyn, M. D., Albany. 

*Bentley, William, D. D., Massachusetts. 

Berrien, Hon. John M., Georgia. 

Bethune, George W., D. D., Pennsylvania. 

Binney, Horace, Pennsylvania. 

Birdseye, Victory, New York. 

*Blatchford, Samuel, D. D., Connecticut. 

*Bloomfield, Joseph, New Jersey. 

Blythe, Calvin, Pennsylvania. 

*Bostock, John, M. D., Liverpool. 

*Botta, Carlo, Italy. 

*Boudinot, Elias, New Jersey. 

*Boudinot, Elisha, New Jersey. 

*Bowditch, Nathaniel, LL. D,, F. R.S. Massachusetts. 

Bozman, John Leeds, Maryland. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



205 



*Breckenridge, Henry W., 
♦Bradford, Alden, LL. D., 
♦Brewster, Sir David, F. R. S. 
Brignoli di BrunnhofF, John, 
*Brovvn, Charles Brockden, 
*Brown, Gen. Jacob, 
*Bro\vn, Francis, D. D,, 
*Buchan, Earl of, F. R. S., 
Bucklin, David W., 
*Buckminster, Joseph S., D. D., 
Burci, Dr. Charles, 



Virginia. 

Massachusetts. 

Edinburgh. 

Italy. 

Pennsylvania. 

Washington. 

New Hampshire. 

Scotland. 

New York. 

Massachusetts. 

Italy. 



Carmichael, 



M. D., 



Carillo, Cura Don Estanislaus, 

*Carroll, Charles, of 

Carroll, Charles H., 

♦Carter, Nathaniel H., 

Cass, Hon. Lewis, 

♦Channing, William Ellery, D. D., 

Chapman, Capt. 

Chase, Rt. Rev. Philander, D. D., 

♦Chauncey, Commodore Isaac, 

Chauncey, Charles, LL. D., 

Chisholm, Colin, M. D., 

♦Clarke, Adam, LL. D., F. R. S., 

Clarkson, Thomas, 

♦Clinton, George, Vice President of the 

Cochran, William. 

Coffin, Rev. Charles, 

Cogswell, Jonathan, D. D., 

Cogswell,William D. D., 

Condit, John S., M. D., 

♦Cooper, Thomas, M. D., 

♦Correa, Jos. de Serra, LL. D., F. R. S 

Croswellj Edwin, 

Gushing, Caleb, 

♦Dalhousie, Earl of, 
Davidson, Richard,. M. D., 
Davidson, Robert, D. D., 
18 



Mississippi. 

Yucatan. 

Carrollton. 

New York. 

New York, 

Michigan. 

Massachusetts. 

B. Army. 

Illinois. 

U. S. Navy. 

Connecticut. 

Bristol, England. 

London. 

England. 
United States. 

Nova Scotia. 

Tennessee. 

Connecticut. 

New Hampshire. 

New Jersey. 

South Carolina. 
., Portugal. 

New York. 

Massachusetts. 

Scotland. 
South Carolina. 
New Jersey. 



206 



MEMBERS OF THE 



Davies, Charles S., Maine. 

Davis, John, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

Day, Thomas, LL. D., Connecticut. 

Dewar, Henry, M. D., Scotland. 

De Jonge, Jongheer J. C, Netherlands. 

De Lile, Alire Raffineau, M. D., France. 

Dickerson, Mahlon, New Jersey. 

Dinsmore, Silas, Alabama. 

Dod, Prof. Albert B., New Jersey. 

Dunbar, Rev. Elijah, New Hampshire. 

Ducachet, Henry W., D. D., Pennsylvania. 

Duer, William A., LL. D., New York. 

Duncan, Andrew, M. D., Scotland. 

Dunn, Henry, England. 

*Duponceau, Peter S,, LL. D. Pennsylvania. 

*Dwight, Timothy, D. D., LL. D., Connecticut. 



*Ebeling, Christoph Daniel, 
*Eddy, Samuel, 
Edelcrantz, Baron, 
*Eliot, John, D. D., 
Elton, Prof. Romeo, 
Evans, David E., 
Everett, Edward, LL. D., 



Hamburg. 
Rhode Island. 
Sweden. 
Massachusetts. 
Rhode Island. 
New York. 
Massachusetts. 



♦Farmer, Henry T., M. D., South Carolina. 

*Farmer, John, New Hampshire. 

Felt, Rev. Joseph B., Massachusetts. 

Fenner, James, Rhode Island. 
Ferdinand III., Grand Duke of Tuscany. 

Fine, John, New York. 

Flagg, Azariah C, New York. 

*Follen, Rev. Charles Massachusetts. 

Foote, E. T., New York. 

Fossombroni, His Excellency Victoria, Florence. 

Franklin, William T., England. 

Friedrichstahl, Le Chevalier, Austria. 

Fromentin, E., Louisiana. 

♦Freeman, James, D. D., Massachusetts. 

♦French, Jonathan, D. D., New Hampshire. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



207 



*Gahn, Henry, Swed. Consul, Sweden. 

Galusha, Jonas, Vermont. 

Gallizioli, Ar. Filippo, Italy. 

Garden, Maj. Alexander, U. S. Army. 

Gaines, Maj. Gen. E. P., U. S. Army. 

*Gardiner, David, New York. 

German, John F., Pennsylvania. 
Gilpin, Henry D. " 

*Good, John Mason, M. D., England. 

*Gore, Christopher, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

Gordon, Thomas F., New Jersey. 

*Gorham, John, M. D., Massachusetts. 

Graberg, Count J. de Hemso, Italy. 

Granger, Francis, New York. 

Gray, Francis C, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

Green, Ashbel, D. D., ' Pennsylvania. 

Greene, George W., American Consul, Rome. 

*Gregoire, Abbe, France. 

Greig, John, New York. 



Hall, John E., 

Hamilton, Sir William R., 

♦Harris, Thaddeus M., D. D., 

♦Harrison, Gen. William Henry, President 

*Harby, Isaac, 

Hartman, C. F. A., 

Hay, William, Jr., 

Hawley, Gideon, LL. D., 

*Hawley, Jesse, ^. 

♦Hawkins, Samuel. 

Haygarth, John, M. D., 

♦Hazard, Ebenezer, 

Henry, William, M. D., 

Heri, Don, of the Princes Corsini, 

Herschell, Sir John, 

Hitchcock, Edward, LL. D., 

Hoffman, George Frederick, M. D., 

Hodgson, William B., 

♦Holmes, Abiel, D. D., 



Pennsylvania. 
Ireland. 
Massachusetts, 
of the [Jnited States. 
South Carolina. 
Hamburg, j 
New York. 
New York. 
New York. 

England. 

Pennsylvania. 

Manchester, Eng. 

Italy. 

England, 

Massachusetts. 

Germany. 

Georgia. 

Massachusetts. 



208 



MEMBERS OF THE 



*Hopkinson, Joseph, 
Hoyt, Gen. Epaphras, 
Hunt, Montgomery, 
Humboldt, Baron Alexander, 
*Humphreys, David, LL. D., 
Hurlburt, Rev. Martin L., 

♦Ireland, William M., M. D., 
Ives, Eli, M. D., 



Pennsylvania. 
Massachusetts. 
New York. 
Prussia. 
Connecticut. 
South Carolina. 

England. 
Connecticut. 



Jackson, General Andrew, President of the United States. 

Jackson, James, M. D., Massachusetts. 

Jameson, Robert, Scotland. 

Jamieson, Robert, D. D., Scotland. 
*Jefferson, Thomas, President of the United States. 

Jeffrey, Francis, Lord, Scotland. 

*Jenner, Edward, M. D., England. 

Johnson, Alexander B., New York. 

*Johnson, William, South Carolina. 

*Johnson, William Samuel, LL. D., Connecticut. 

Jomard, M., France. 

Jordan, Ambrose L., New York. 

Julius, Dr. N. C, Prussia. 



Kendall, James, D. D., 
Kemper, Jan Melchior, 
*Kirkland, John T., D. D., LL. D., 

*Kirkland, Joseph, 
Knight, Thomas Andrew. 

*Lafayette, The Marquis de, 
Lafayette, George Washington, 
*Lambrechtsen, Sir N. C, 
Lansing, Derick, 
L'Escalier, Baron, 
Lelevel, M. Joachim, 
Lemon, Robert, F. S. A., 
*Lee, William, 
Leopold, Arch Duke of Tuscany, 



Massachusetts. 
Holland. 
Massachusetts. 
New York. 



France. 

France. 

Holland. 

New York. 

France. 

Paris. 

England. 

Washington. 

Italy. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



209 



Lettsom, John C, M. D., 


England. 


Low, James, M. D., 


New York. 


Lowell, Charles, D. D., 


Massachusetts. 


*Madison, James, President of the United States. s 


Magini, Dr., 


Italy. * 


Magnusen, Prof. Finn, 


Denmark. 


*Marbois, Barbe, 


France. 


Marcy, William L., LL. D., 


New York. 


Markoe, Francis, Jr., 


Washington, D. C. 


*McClure, William, 


Pennsylvania. 


Mcllvaine, Rt. Rev. C. P., D. D., 


Ohio. 


Mease, James, M. D., 


Pennsylvania. 


*Mellen, John, 


Massachusetts. 


Michaux, Andre, 


France. 


Milledoler, Philip, D. D., 


New York. 


Milnor, James, D. D., 


New York. 


*M'Kean, Prof. Joseph, D. D., LL. D., 


Massachusetts. 


*Moore, Rt. Rev. Richard, D. D., 


Virginia. 


♦Monroe, James, President of the United States. 


Morpeth, Rt. Hon. Viscount, 


England. 


Moseley, Daniel, 


New York. 


Mossell, Amos S., 


Pennsylvania. 


*Morse, Jedediah, D. D., 


Massachusetts. 


Moulton, Joseph W., 


New York. 


*Muhlenburgh, Henry, D. D., 


Pennsylvania. 


Murdock, James, D. D., 


Connecticut. 


Murray, Hon. Charles Augustus, 


England. 


Murray, John, 


Scotland. 


♦Murray, Lindley, 


England. 


*Nason, Rev. Reuben, 


Maine. 


Navarrete, Don Martin Fernandez de, 


Spain. 


Nichols, Ichabod, D. D., 


Maine. 


Niel, Patrick, 


Scotland. 


Norman, B. M., 


Louisiana. 


Oakley, Hon. Thomas J., 


New York. 


*Ogden, Aaron, LL. D., 


New Jersey. 


Ombrosi, James, 


Italy. 



18* 



210 



MEMBERS OF THE 



Pazos, Don Vincent, 
Peale, Charles W., 
Pearson, George, M. D., 
*Peck, William D., 
Pennington, William, 
Perez, Don Juan Pio, 
Perkins, Cyrus, M. D., 
Pierce, John, D. D., 
♦Pickering, Timothy, LL. D., 
Pickering, John, LL. D., 
*Pitcher, Nathaniel, 
Pitkin, Timothy, LL. D., 
Plumer, William, 
*Porter, Gen. Peter B., 
Prescott, Samuel J., 
Prescott, William H., LL. D., 
*Prince, Rev. John, LL. D., 
Puccini, Aurelio, 
*Putnam, Gen. Rufus, 



South America. 
Pennsylvania. 
.England. 
Massachusetts. 
New Jersey. 
Yucatan. 
New York. 
Massachusetts. 



New York. 
Connecticut. 
New Hampshire. 
New York, 
Massachusetts, 



Italy. 
Ohio. 



Quincv, Josiah, LL. D., 



Massachusetts. 



Rafn, Prof. Christian C, 

*Ramsay, David, M. D., 

Ranke, Prof. Leopold, 

Randolph, Edward, 

Raumer, Prof. Frederick Von, 

Reed, William B., 

Ptidolfi, Marquis Cosimo, 

*Riley, Capt. James, 

Ritter, Prof Carl, 

Robbins, Thomas, D. D,, 

*Roberdeau, Major. 

♦Robertson, William D. 

Root, Erastus, 

*Roscoe, William, 

Roxburgh, William, M. D., 

*Rumford, Benjamin Thompson, Count, 

*Rush, Benjamin, M. D., 

Rush, Richard, 



Denmark.^ 

South Carolina. 

Prussia. 

Mississippi. 

Prussia, 

Pennsylvania* 

Italy. 

Ohio. 

Prussia. 

Massachusetts.. 



New York. 

England. 

Calcutta. 

France. 

Pennsylvania, 

Pennsylvania- 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



211 



Sabine, Capt. Joseph, 

Salva, Dr. Jayme, 

Savage, James, 

Savage, John, LL. D., 

Schoolcraft, Henry R., 

Sirnms, W. Gilmore, 

*Sinclair, Sir John, 

*Schaeffer, Rev. F. D., 

Schwartz, John G., 

Serreistori, Mr., 

Sill, Theodore, 

*Southey, Robert, LL. D., 

*Smith, Sir James E., M. D., 

*Smuh, Rev. Samuel S., D. D., 

Smith, Rev. Isaac, 

*Smith, William, 

Smith, Charles H., 

Smith, William, 

Smith, Gerrit, 

*Shaw, William S., 

Sparks, Prof. Jared, LL. D., 

Spencer, John C, LL. D., 

Staples, William R., r 

Starkweather, Samuel, 

Steinhauer, Rev. H., 

Stebbins, Charles, 

Steel, John H., 

Stevens, Samuel, 

Stevens, Rev. William Bacon, 

Stewart, Arch Deacon, 

Stewart, Commodore Charles, 

Stickney, J. B., 

*Stockton, Richard, 

*Storer, Clement, 

Story, Hon. Joseph, LL. D., 

*Sullivan, William, LL. D., 

Sutherland, Jacob, LL. D. 

Swainson, James, 

Swift, Gen, J. G.., 



England, 

Spain. 

Massachusetts. 

New York. 

New York. 

South Carolina. 

Scotland. 

Pennsylvania. 

Austria. 

Italy. 

New York. 

England. 

England. 

New Jersey. 

Massachusetts. 

Lower Canada. 

Antwerp. 

Lower Canada. 

New York. 

Massachusetts. 

Massachusetts. 

New York. 

Rhode Island. 

New York. 

Pennsylvania. 

New York. 

New York. 

New York. 

Georgia. 

Upper Canada. 

U. S. Navy. 

Indiana. 

New Jersey. 

New Hampshire. 

Massachusetts. 

Massachusetts. 

New York. 

England. 

New York. 



212 



MEMBERS OF THE 



*Talcott, Samuel A., New York. 

Tallmadge, James, LL. D., New York. 

Tappan, Benjamin, D. D., Maine. 

Tappan, Christopher, New York. 

*Taylor, John W., New York. 

Tefft, I. K., Georgia. 

*Teignmouth, Lord, England. 

Ternaux-Compans, Henri, ■ France. 

*Thomas, Isaiah, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

Thonching, Canton, China. 

Thouin, Andre, M. D.,. France. 

Tracy, Albert H., New York. 

Treadwell, John D., Massachusetts. 

Trevett, Samuel R., M. D., Massachusetts. 

Trullani, Leonardi, Italy. 

♦Trumbull, Rev. Benjamin, D. D., Connecticut. 
Tyler, John, President of the United States. 



Uberto, Chev. del Nobili, 



Italy. 



Vallancey, Charles, 

Van Buren, Martin, President of the 

Vandenbroek, J. W., 

*Vander Kemp, Francis Adrian, 

Vander Palme, Johannes H., 

Van Royen, Henricu.s, 

♦Van Schaack, Peter, LL. D., 

♦Vaughan, Benjamin, LL. D., 

*Vaughan, John, LL. D., 

*Viele, John J., 

Vroom, Peter D., 



Ireland. 
United States. 

Netherlands. 
New York. 
Netherlands. 
Netherlands. 
New York. 
Maine. 

Pennsylvania. 
New York. 
New Jersey. 



Wadsworth, James, 
Wall, Garrett D., 
Wallace, Joshua M., 
Walsh, Robert, LL. D., 
Warden, David Baillie, 
Warren, Joseph C, M. D., 
Waterman, Thomas G., 
Watson, John P., 



New York. 
New Jersey. 
New Jersey. 
Pennsylvania. 
France. 
Massachusetts. 
New York. 
Pennsylvania. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



213 



Watts, Charles, Louisiana. 

Webb, Thomas H., M. D., Rhode Island. 

Webster, Hon. Daniel, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

*Webster, Noah, LL. D., Connecticut. 

Westbrook, Rev. Cornelius D., New York. 

*Wheelock, John, D. D., LL. D., New Hampshire. 

Williams, Sir John Bickerton, Knt., England. 

* Williams, Rev. Samuel, LL. D., Vermont. 

Williams, Stephen W., Massachusetts. 

Williams, Nathan, New York. 

Williams, Charles, Vermont. 

Williamson, William D., Maine. 

Willis, William, Maine. 

*Wilson, James, Pennsylvania. 

*Wilkinson, Gen. James, U. S. Army. 

*Winthrop, James, LL. D., Massachusetts. 

*Winthrop, Thomas L., LL. D. Massachusetts. 

*Winthrop, William, Massachusetts. 

Winthrop, Adam, Mississippi. 

Wilson, Rev. Joshua L., LL. D. Ohio. 

Wilson, Prof. John, Scotland. 

Wilkes, Commander Charles, U. S. Navy. 

Wilkeson, Samuel, New York. 

*Wistar, Caspar, M. D., Pennsylvania. 

Wood, Silas, New York. 

Woods, Prof. Leonard, D. D., Massachusetts. 

Woodworth, John, New York. 

Wright, Hon. Silas, New York. 



*Yates, John Van Ness, 
Yeates, G. D., M. D., F. 
Young, Rev. Alexander, 
Young, Samuel, 



R. S. 



New York. 
England. 
Massachusetts. 
New York. 



4 



AN ADDRESS, 

DELIVERED BEFORE THE 

NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 

AT ITS FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY, 20tH NOVEMBER, 1844 ; 

JOHN ROMEYN BRODHEAD, ESQ., 

HISTORICAL AGENT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, TO HOLLAND, 
ENGLAND, AND FRANCE. 



WITH AN ACCOUNT OF THE SUBSEQUENT PROCEEDINGS AT THE DINNER GIVEN IN THE EVENING. 



NEW YORK: 

PRESS OF THE NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

1844. 



At a stated meeting of the New York Historical Society, held on Tuesday 
Evening, the Third of December, 1844, at the Historical Rooms, in the 
University, the First Vice President in the Chair. It was unanimously 

Eesolved, That the thanks of the New York Historical Society, are hereby 
tendered to J. Romeyn Brodhead, Esquire, for the interesting and instructive 
Address delivered before this Society at its recent Anniversary celebration ; an 
Address which fhmished abundant evidence of the zeal, ability, and intelUgence, 
with which the duties of his late mission had been discharged. 

Resolved, That Mr. Brodhead be requested to furnish a copy of his Address, 
to be placed among the Archives of the Society, and published. 

A true E.xtractfrom the Minutes. 



JOHN JAY, 

Recording Secretary. 



Dated at the Historical Rooms, i 

University of the City of Neic York, > 

December 6,1844, j 



WM. VAN NORDEN, PRINTER. 



AN ADDRESS 



Gentlemen of the New York Historical Society : — 

I WILL not affect to conceal the emotions of pride, and of 
humility, with which your invitation has filled me. To be 
asked to fall in the file of illustrious men who have, from 
time to time, addi-essed this body, is a compliment of no 
common order. To dare the venturesome attempt — to 
essay to take a place in that brilliant array — may seem to 
be rash, if not presumptuous. Yet, the peculiarity of the 
circumstances which must, alone, have induced your unex- 
pected invitation, seems almost to have modified it into a 
command ; and though, had the personal feelings of him 
who has the high honor now to address you, prevailed, 
some worthier associate would have occupied the time of 
his fellow-members on this occasion, the duty you have 
imposed is too peremptory to be declined, while its execu- 
tion is attempted with the most unfeigned diffidence. 

It has been suggested that some reference to the recent 
investigations of the Historical Agent of this State, in Eu- 
ropean Archives, may not be inappropriate to the present 
occasion. 

Although a detailed account of the Agent's proceedings 
in the execution of his duties, will form the legitimate sub- 
ject of an official Report to the State Government, the 
Agency, itself, being, as it were, the child of this Society, it 
is supposed that a few particulars respecting the Foreign 
Record Offices that have been visited, and some references 
to the documents that have been gleaned from them, relating 



AN ADDRESS. 



to periods and events hitherto unknown, or but imper- 
fectly known to the Historians of our State, may be inter- 
esting to the members of this Society. 

What I propose, therefore, in the altogether practical 
remarks I have now the honor to address to you, is, to 
take a rapid glance at the archives of Holland, England, 
and France, to which the Agent had access ; and to refer, 
briefly, to some of the more interesting of the Documents 
transcribed. In doing this, I shall follow, as nearly as may 
be, a chronological order ; and simply state facts, without 
attempting to weave a connected narrative. 

It is known to some, at least, now present, that the in- 
spection of the State Papers of Foreign Governments is a 
privilege of a high order; and granted in many cases, 
only, upon applications backed by high, personal, or official 
influence. A feeling of liberal and expanded courtesy may 
often prompt a compliance with the applications of foreign- 
ers, supported by the zealous and active exertions of their 
national representative, when the request of a subject or 
citizen, merely, would perhaps be disregarded. In every 
case, the permission to examine the Archives of a Foreign 
Government, is a favor granted — not a right enjoyed. 

It was fortunate for the interests of the State, and of this 
Society, that our country was represented by such men as 
Harmanus Bleecker, at the Hague, Edward Everett, at 
London, and Lewis Cass, at Paris, when the Agent pre- 
sented himself, to ask the privilege of an inspection of the 
State Papers in those Capitals. And it would be inexcusa- 
ble, if this opportunity were not taken to declare my con- 
viction, that, to the warm interest displayed, on every 
occasion, by these eminent gentlemen, in the objects of the 
agency, and to their zealous and well directed efforts in its 
behalf, is to be attributed, — more than to any other cause, — 
whatever of success may have attended the enterprise of 
the State. 

The application made to the Government of the " Father- 
land" received a ready, and most favorable consideration. 
A prompt order, directed by the King, himself, to be as 



AN ADDRESS. 



liberal in its provisions as the exigencies of the service 
would allow, was issued by the Minister of the Interior ; 
and the Agent, on presenting himself at the Royal Archives 
at the Hague, was received by the officer in charge, with 
a courtesy and interest that left him nothing further to 
desire. Every document, book, and paper, known or sup- 
posed to contain information relative to our Colonial days, 
was thrown open to his inspection ; and every arrangement 
was made, and every facility afforded, that a generous and 
liberal policy could dictate. 

Thus then — in the very seat of government of the land 
of our forefathers — in the very Palace of the Stadt-holder — 
was the attempt commenced, to rescue from obscurity the 
papers which, it was supposed, would fill up the gaps in our 
earl}'" annals, and throw light upon the events of our Colo- 
nial days. The Palace of the Binnenhof — itself so rich in 
Historical association — is well chosen as the depository of 
the immense collection of Documents which regard the 
annals of Holland and her dependencies, not only, but in 
w^hich are also to be found most authentic materials for the 
History of Europe. These papers are contained in an 
immense suit of apartments — overlooking the quadrangle 
which witnessed the execution of Barnevelt — connected, 
one with another, by many a stair and winding passage, 
and opening into many a long gallery and corridor. Many 
a memorial of ancient days, yet remains in the old apart- 
ments, to attest the former splendor of the Palace ; and 
many a painted and gilded ceiling yet arrests the eye, and 
contrasts, strangely, with the parchment-bound volumes, and 
dusty files, and worm-eaten cases, that occupy the places of 
the Courtiers and the Nobles of the days of old. 

The documents in this repository are, in general, very 
well arranged. The greater part are preserved in volumes 
bound in parchment, in a style of durability and neatness 
characteristic of our Dutch ancestors. They consist, chiefly 
of minutes of the proceedings of the States General at their 
ordinary and secret meetings — diplomatic and other corres- 
pondence, and commissions and instructions to officers, &c. 
1* 



6 AN ADDRESS. 

The original papers received by the States General, 
from time to time, are arranged in files, or deposited in 
bundles in various separate cases and repositories, and 
have suffered from the effects of time and exposure to dust, 
much more than the bound volumes. It was in these files 
and bundles, that many of the original papers received from 
" New Netherland" were found ; and the reason why, in 
some instances, Records of presumed importance to the 
illustration of our Colonial History, appear to be missing, 
may, perhaps, be found in a Resolution of the States General 
of 29th November, 1622, that the Documents in their pos- 
session, relating to the West India Company, be delivered 
to the Directors of that Corporation. 

The Agent was occupied, during several months, in a 
laborious investigation, in the course of which, upwards of 
Four Hundred Volumes and bundles of papers, many of 
them, old, decayed, and worm-eaten, were examined ; and 
the difficulty of the research was by no means lightened 
by the circumstance that most of the Documents which 
were read, were written in the perverse and obscure charac- 
ters common in the 17th Century. 

The results of the examinations at the Hague, however, 
satisfied the Agent, that though a great and valuable mass 
of information, on points either entirely novel, or at best, 
very imperfectly known in the annals of our State, was 
there contained ; the Archives of the West India Company, 
which had the supervision and direction of the Colony of 
New Netherland, was the grand magazine in which he 
might hope to find those more particular details of voyages, 
discoveries, emigrations, settlements, and personal narra- 
tives, which would be of the highest interest to the descend- 
ants of the early colonists, as well as to the Historian of 
our State. 

This indeed, was anticipated before the investigations in 
:he Royal Archives were commenced : and with this view, 
an order was obtained from the Minister of the Colonies, di- 
recting the keeper of the old East and West India Company's 
papers at Amsterdam, to afford the Agent every assistance, 



AN ADDRESS. 7 

in the examination of the Documents in his custody. But 
the surprise, mortification, and regret that were experienced, 
when he was told, on application at the West India House, 
that all the books, docianents, and papers, of every kind, he- 
longing to the old West India Company, of a date anterior 
to the year 1700, had been publicly sold, in the year 1821, by 
order of the Government, can be more easily conceived than 
expressed. The truth however, unwelcome as it was, be- 
came confirmed after a thorough examination of the remain- 
ing papers ; and the Agent became satisfied that nothing 
whatever, affecting the early History of our State, (with 
an exception which will presently be noticed,) now remains 
in the Archives of the West India Company at Amsterdam.* 

It was subsequently ascertained that a portion of the 
papers thus sold, was in the possession of the original pur- 
chaser. Permission was obtained from him to make an 
examination of this portion ; which was effected. Nothing 
however, relating to our early History was found ; the 
Documents remaining in the possession of the purchaser, 
being, chiefly, mercantile entry books of the East India 
Company. The mortifying conviction is now forced upon 
us, that the valuable papers of the West India Company 
relating to New Netherland, (and if what was heard of 
them at Amsterdam be true, they were very valuable,) 
which until the year 1821, were easily attainable by our 
State, are now irrecoverably lost ! Scattered and dissipated 
through Holland and Germany — used as wrapping paper 
by shopkeepers and tradesmen, or ground up in paper 
mills — the destruction of these priceless old memorials has 
left a chasm in the original materials for the illustration of 
our history, which we look, in vain, to any other source fully 
to supply. 

The City of Amsterdam, having in 1G56, purchased land 
in New Netherland from the West India Company, and 



* 80,000 pounds weight of these papers are said to have been sold by public 
suction, to the highest bidder. It is understood they were purchased by the 
pound weight, for a very small sum. 



8 AN ADDRESS. 

undertaken to manage a colony there, examinations were 
made in the Records of the City Government, for Documents 
relating to this subject. Every possible courtesy was 
shown by the authorities of the city, and quite a number of 
interesting papers were found and copied. 

The result of the investigations in the archives in the 
Netherlands, is the procurement of sixteen large \olumes 
of Transcripts, wdiich are now in the Secretary of State's 
office at Albany.* 

In England, the chief repository in which the Documents 
relating to the American Colonies are contained; is the 
Queen's State Paper Office. The Board of Trade, it is well 
known, had for many years, the general supervision of the 
American Plantations ; and their Records, which were 
formerly in the custody of the officers of the Board, in 
Whitehall, are of exceeding interest. These Records, 
(amounting to upwards of 2000 volumes,) were lately re- 
moved, by order of Government, to the State Paper Office, 
where they are hereafter to remain. 

The regulations of this office, however, are very precise 
and formal. It is, in reality, a part of the Sovereign's own 
Private Library — an appendage to the Secretary of State's 
Office. Before any person is allowed access to the office, 
for the pupose of consulting Documents, an order must be 
obtained from the Secretary of State, directed to the keeper. 



* While Ml". Brodhead was at Amsterdam, he had an interview with the 
ClaBsis of Amsterdam, (under whose care and direction the Dutch Churches in 
America remained until 1771,) and readily procured access to the archives of 
that reverend body. A large amount of valuable Historical materials was found, 
consisting of Original Letters received from the Dutch Clergy in New Nether- 
land and New York, from 1648 to 1785 ; and records of the correspondence of 
the Committee of Classis, with these ministers. The Classis of Amsterdam, 
at his request, loaned the original letters, &c., to the General Synod of the Re- 
formed Dutch Church ; and allowed him to have copies made for the Synod, of 
the Correspondence of the Committee. The letters, and the copies of the com- 
mittee's correspondence, are now in the Archives of the General Synod ; and it 
is hoped that proper measures will be taken to obtain the permanent possession 
of these very curious and valuable original Documents. 



AN ADDRESS. 9 

and stating the extent of the privileges to be enjoyed by 
the visitor. The enlightened statesmanship, and liberal 
disposition of the present noble Foreign Secretary of Great 
Britain, (Lord Aberdeen,) induced a much more favorable 
consideration of the application of the Agent, than had 
been extended by his predecessor ; and an order was 
granted, to permit the inspection of the volumes in the State 
Paper Office, relative to the Province of New York. This 
order was, however, very precise in its terms ; and was 
interpreted by the keeper of the State Papers, with the most 
rigid and embarrassing strictness. The several Documents 
selected for transcription by the Agent, were re-examined 
by an officer under the direction of the Secretary of State ; 
and none were permitted to be transcribed, until they had 
received the allowance of this officer. Several hundred 
volumes were thus examined, and a very large Inass of 
papers copied. 

Researches were also made in the Library of the British 
Museum ; in the Office of the Privy Council ;* and in the 
Library of the Archbishop of Canterbury, at Lambeth. 
The utmost courtesy was exhibited by the gentlemen in 
charge of these repositories ; and every attention was 
shown that could have been desired. 

The result of the Agent's researches in England, is a 
mass of papers, filling forty seven volumes ; comprising the 
official correspondence of the Governors of New York from 
its surrender by the Dutch, in 1 6G4, to the end of the Revo- 
lution — as well as various Documents of high interest 
received from private hands. There are, also, several very 
important papers relating to the period between 1614 and 
1664. It may be gratifying to many to know, that copies 
have been made of all Sir William Johnson's official letters 
to the British Government, which remain in the office ; and 
that though the Agent was unable to find any trace of the 



* There are no separate papers in the Privy Council Office, of an earUer date 
than 1700. The Registers, however, are perfect from the time of Queen 
Elizabeth. 



10 AN ADDRESS. 

original Books of Records of the Indian Commissioners, 
which are supposed to have been removed from this State 
during the Revolutionary War, the greater part of these 
proceedings, as transcribed and sent to London, from time 
to time, have been recovered and secured. And, without 
venturing to affirm, that every thing of importance to the 
illustration of the History of this State, in the British 
Archives, has been obtained, the belief is confidently ex- 
pressed that, at any rate, the greatest and most valuable 
portion of these materials is now in our possession. 

The influence that France for so many years exercised 
over the Indian tribes on our borders, and within our very 
territory itself, was too important, to allow the opportunity 
of examining her Records to pass unimproved. Canada, 
and Canadian affairs, must always occupy a prominent 
place ifi any history of this State ; and applications were 
accordingly made to the proper departments of the French 
Government, for permission to investigate the Documents 
relating to that Colony, in their Archives. It need scarcely 
be said, that these applications were received, and acceded 
to, in the spirit of broad and liberal courtesy, for which 
the French Government has become almost proverbial. 
The Historical riches which were found in the archives at 
Paris, are only equalled by the prompt and generous liber- 
ality with which His Majesty's Government threw them 
open to the researches of the Agent. 

The general management of Canadian affairs, was, for a 
long time, entrusted to the department of the ^Marine ; to 
whose head was also confided the Portfolio of the Colonies. 
It was not until about the year 1754, when the troubles in 
America began to grow serious, that the Dei^artment of 
War appears to have had particular communication with 
the French Agents in America ; at any rate, nothing of any 
consequence, in this respect, was discovered in its Records 
before that period. 

The Archives of the Department of the Marine and 
Colonies, are verj'^ rich in documents relating to the history 
of the French dependencies in this continent. Here are to 



AN ADDRESS. 11 

be found the instructions of the French Government to its 
Agents in America ; letters and despatches from the King 
and his Ministers, and original papers from the Colonial 
authorities to the Government at home ; correspondence 
with the neighboring English Colonies; reports of inter- 
views with the Indians on their borders ; plans of cam- 
paigns ; details of battles and skirmishes ; in short, the 
official and cotemporaneons documents, which form, (with 
those in the Department of War,) materials for the illustra- 
tion of one of the most interesting and romantic portions of 
the History of North America. 

Owing, however, to various causes, (prominent among 
which may be named the wild and ruthless spirit of destruc- 
tion which seemed to actuate the Revolutionaires of 1793.) 
these Records were found to be in a state of deplorable 
confusion ; and the toil and patience required to examine 
and select from the vast mass of unarranged papers that 
load the shelves, can scarcely be appreciated by any one 
who has not had personal experience of the difficulty. 

At the period of the French Revolution, these Archives 
were at Versailles, where they had been kept since the 
days of Louis XIV. ; and when the Government offices 
were subsequently transferred to Paris, the old Colonial 
papers were still left at Versailles — year by year accumu- 
lating dust, and abandoned to decay and deterioration. 
Here they remained through successive reigns, apparently 
unheeded ; and it was not until 1837, that they were finally 
installed in their present Depot facing the " Place de la 
Concorde." It is to be hoped, that, under the supervision of 
the present very competent and intelligent chief, they will 
soon be arranged in a manner consistent with their high 
value, and worthy the dignity of the nation. 

The papers relating to Canada, are contained in two 
several divisions. The one — a series of bound volumes, 
containing the despatches and instructions of the King and 
his Ministers, to the Colonial functionaries — the other, and 
by far the most fertile repository, is a series of enormous 
" Cartons," or Portfolios, in which are placed, loosely, and 



12 AN ADDEESS. 

without the slightest attempt at arrangement, a vast mass 
of original Documents, relating to Canada, from 1630 to the 
treaty of Paris, 1763. There were upwards of a hundred 
of these Cartons to be thoroughly and carefully examined ; 
and a task more appalling to the investigator could scarcely 
have been proposed. 

Dusty — decayed — imperfect — without order — often with- 
out a date to identify the Document — a paper relating to 
Dieskau's defeat jostling a despatch of Count Frontenac — 
an account of Montcalm's last effort at Quebec pele-mele 
with a letter of Governor Dongan — the expedition of 1690 
mixed up with the attack on Fort William-Henry ; — De la 
Barre and Duquesne — the Hurons and Manhattan — Boston 
and the Ottawas, side by side, in the most admirable con- 
fusion, — the contents of these cartons furnish, indeed, the 
materials of a brilliant Historical Mosaic, whose riches 
well repay the patient investigator, but whose lamentable 
disorder might almost deter him from the painful research. 

The Archives of the " Department of War," however, 
present a gratifying contrast, in respect to arrangement, to 
those of the " Marine and Colonies." The papers are chro- 
nologically arranged in bound volumes ; and their exami- 
nation was as agreeable and pleasant, as that of the Canada 
cartons was laborious and annoying. The papers found in 
this Repository relate, chiefly, to the period between 1755 
and the Treaty of Paris ; and comprise the correspondence 
of the Military Commanders in America, with the home 
Government, during the " French War." 

Seventeen folio volumes, containing upwards of six 
thousand pages of transcripts, are the results of the Agent's 
researches at Paris. It is confidently believed that they 
w^ill be found of high interest to the Historian, and to sup- 
ply a long perceived and regretted deficiency in our own 
State Records. 

It is now proposed to refer, briefly, to a few of the points 
in our Colonial History, which the documents gleaned from 
the Archives just spoken of, open, illustrate, and explain. 



AN ADDRESS. 13 

We are already familiar with most of the circumstances 
connected with Henry Hudson's discovery and exploration, 
in the year 1609 — under the auspices of the Dutch East 
India Company — of the noble River that now bears his 
name. To this voj'^age, we may, perhaps, properly refer, as 
the period of the commencement of our State Annals. 

There are two leading authorities on this subject. One 
is the Journal of the Voyage, kept by Robert Juet, Hudson's 
mate ; for the preservation of which we are indebted to 
the zeal and diligence of the Reverend Samuel Purchas, of 
London, who published it in his " Pilgrims" in the year 
1625. The other, is the account given by De Laet, the 
famous Dutch Historian, in his " New World, or description 
of the West Indies," the first edition of which was also pub- 
lished in the year 1625. De Laet was one of the most 
distinguished geographers of his day ; and he evidently 
wrote his descriptions from original documents, which he 
states he had before him. Aware of this, the Agent of the 
State, when in Holland, made efforts to ascertain the 
fate of De Laet's papers, and, if possible, procure the 
original Journals, &c., from which he drew his details. 
But though great pains were taken, no information was 
obtained. 

The unfortunate destruction of the early books and papers 
of the Dutch East and West India Companies, has already 
been alluded to. Ky an oversight, however, of the officers 
charged to effect the sale of these papers, a small volume 
escaped — a Register, apparently, of the sailing and arrival 
of the Company's ships.* In that book a few lines were 
found, relating to the vessel in which Hudson made his 
voyage to our River. The interest we all feel in every 
minute fact connected with this voyage, is heightened by 
the conviction that much of great Historical value is now 



* The original grant, (on parchment) to Godin and Blommart, of lands on the 
South River, signed by Peter Minuit, and his council, dated at Fort Amster- 
dam, 15th July, 1630, was the only other paper found. It is now in the possession 
of the State. 

2 



14 AN ADDRESS. 

irrecoverably lost ; and will serve as an apology, if any be 
necessary, for the detail of the few particulars now first 
made known to the members of the Society. 

The record consists of but a few lines. It states that the 
" yagt Halve-maan," of 40 lasts (or 80 tons) burthen, sailed 
from Amsterdam, " towards the North," in the year 1608* ; 
and that she returned on 1.5th July, 1610. That on the 2d 
May, 1611, she sailed, with another A^essel, to the East 
Indies, under the command of Commander Laurens Reael ; 
and that on the 6th of March, 1615, she was wrecked and 
destroyed on the Island of Mauritius. 

This is the whole of the information the Archives at 
Amsterdam have afforded, respecting Hudson's ship. Short 
and meagre as the statement is, it shows that the Halve- 
maan, was of no more than 80 tons burthen ; a size which 
easily admits the supposition that she ascended the River 
as far as Waterford, or Half-Moon, as it was sometime 
called. It shoM^s, also, that there is strong ground for be- 
lieving the assertion that she was detained in England, on 
her return ; as we know from Juet's journal that she arrived 
off Dartmouth on the 7th of November, 1609, and we now 
learn that she did not reach Amsterdam until the 15th July 
1610 — more than eight months afterwards. And, we now 
know, that the keel of the adventurous yacht that bore the 
first white man up the waters of our noble River, found at 
last, a resting place, on the 6th of March, 1615, on the far 
off and lonely beach of the Mauritius. 

The period between Hudson's voyage and the year 1614, 
is but vaguely known to our Historians. Had the early 
papers of the East and West India Companies been still in 
existence, we might have gathered many interesting details 
from them. We know, it is true, that the year after the 
discovery, a ship was sent from Amsterdam to the Hudson 
River ; and that in 1613, a few houses had been erected on 
Manhattan Island — the germ of this city. And though no 



* So stated in the " Ship-book." This refers, perhaps, to the date of her clear- 
ance at Amsterdam. She did iiot leave the Texel, till 9th April, 1609. 



AN ADDRESS. 15 

original documents have been discovered by the Agent, re- 
ferring to the alleged visit of Argal, this year to our Har- 
bour, there is every reason to believe that he actually 
landed here, and found a Dutch trading establishment 
organized. 

The Archives at the Hague, however, have afforded us 
some novel and interesting particulars of these early days. 
The General Edict of the States General, of 27th March, 
1614, in favor of " all persons who had discovered, or might 
discover any rivers, bays, harbors, or countries before un- 
known," is familiar to our Historians. This Edict was the re- 
sult of a Resolution of the Province of Holland, which was 
passed, upon the memorial of certain merchants interested 
in maritime discovery, recommending to the States General 
the passage of a general ordinance declaring their intention 
to protect the interests of those Avho incurred the risks afid 
expenses of exploring expeditions. But this Edict did not, 
of itself, assure the possession of the special privileges 
which De Laet tells us were granted by the States General 
to the Amsterdam merchants, who in 1610 had sent a ship 
to the Hudson River. It was necessary that a special grant 
should be passed, in each case, in which the monopoly pro- 
mised by the general Edict was desired- 

We now learn, for the first time, from the minutes of the 
States General, the particulars of the special grant relative 
to New Netherland — that on Saturday, the 11th day of 
October, 1614,* — five years after the discovery of the Hud- 
son — there appeared before the meeting, the deputies of 
the United Company of Merchants who had discovered 
" New Netherland,"' and made a report of their discoveries, 
to their High Mightinesses, and asked for a special edict in 
their favor, agreeably to the terms of the general ordinance 
of 27th March. They stated, that at great expense and 
hea^7" damage to themselves, arising from the loss of ves- 
sels, during the last year, they had, with five ships, owned 
by them, discovered and explored certain new lands lying 



* Hoi. Doc. vol. 1, p, 39. 



16 AN ADDRESS. 

ill America, between New France and Virginia, in the 
latitude of from 40 to 45 degrees — ^which they called " New 
Netherland." They, at the same time, presented a map of 
the newly discovered country. It is presumed that the 
Report of these discoveries was a verbal one, as no state- 
ment, in writing, has been found in the Archives. But, 
fortunately, the map then presented was found ; a fac- 
simile of which is now in the office of the Secretary of 
State at Albany, as part of the " Holland Documents," of 
the Agency. This map is undoubtedly, one of the most in- 
teresting memorials we have. It is about three feet long, 
and shows, very minutely, the course of the Hudson River 
from Manhattan to above Albany, as well as a portion of 
the sea-coast ; and contains, like'v\dse, curious notes and 
memoranda about the neighboring Indians. The work, 
perhaps, of one of the companions of Hudson, himself, and 
made within five years of the discovery of our River, its 
fidelity of delineation is scarcely less remarkable than its 
high antiquity. 

The States General, upon hearing the Report of the me- 
morialists, and after an inspection of this map, ordained 
that those memorialists should have the exclusive right of 
visiting the newly discovered lands in America, between 40 
and 45 degrees of North latitude, and between New France 
and Virginia, as laid down upon the map before them, and 
called " New Netherland," for four voyages during a period 
of three years, to commence on the first day of January, 
1615, or sooner — and that no other persons than they, should 
sail out of the ports of the United Provinces to " New 
Netherland," under penalty of a fine of 50,000 ducats, and 
a confiscation of ships and cargoes — and they further ex- 
pressly commanded all their magistrates, officers and 
citizens to interpose no obstacle to the memorialists full and 
perfect enjoyment of their grant, which they declared to be 
" for the service and benefit of the Netherlands."* 

This was the first official recognition of the existence of 



* Hoi. Doc, vol. 1, p. 47. — See Note A., post. 



AN ADDRESS. 17 

" New Netherland" by the States General. Its name occurs, 
for the first time, in this grant. The subject is one of such 
peculiar interest to all New Yorkers, that no apology is 
thought necessary for introducing the names of the o\\Tiers, 
and of the ships, and their captains, by whom the discoveries 
were made. They were, Garret Jacobsen Witsen, formerly 
Bm'gomaster of the city of Amsterdam, Jonas Witsen, and 
Simon Monisen, owners of the ship Fox, captain John De 
With ; — Hans Hongers, Paulus Pelgrom, and Lambrecht 
Van Tweenhuysen, owners of the two ships, the Tiger, and 
the Fortune, captains Adriaen Block, and Hendrick Corsti- 
ansen ; — Arnold Van Lybergen, Wessel Schenck, Hans 
Claessen, and Barent Sweertsen, owners of the ship Night- 
engale, Captain Thys Volkertsen ; — all of Amsterdam ; — and 
Peter Clementsen Brower, Jan Clementsen Kies, and Cor- 
nells Volkertsen, merchants of Hoorn, owners of the ship 
Fortune, captain Cornells Jacobsen May. 

The names of some of these captains are already familiar 
to the Historian. Block Island, and Cape May, to this hour 
tell us who were the hardy mariners that early explored 
them ; and an Island in the Hudson River ibr a long time 
bore the name of Jan de With. Hendrick Corstiansen, or 
Christiansen, De Laet tells us, was the first commandant of 
the fort erected on the River, near Albany, this very year, 
(1614) ; but the name of Captain Thys Volkertsen has not 
as yet, appeared in our annals. 

The Amsterdam Company, thus fortified with the special 
authority of the States General, prosecuted their explora- 
tions in New Netherland ; and the next notice we find of 
their progress in discovery, is an entry in the Registers of 
their High Mightinesses, on the 18th of August, 1616* — 
about two years afterwards. On this occasion, Captain 
Cornells Hendricksen, of Monichendam, in Holland, appear- 
ed before the meeting, on behalf of Gerrit Jacobsen Witsen, 
Jonas Witsen, Lambrecht Van Tweenhuysen, Paulus Pel- 
gi-om, and others, " Directors of New Netherland," situated in 



* Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 53. 



18 AN ADDRESS. 

America, " between New France and Virginia, and extend- 
ing from 40 to 45 degrees of North latitude," and made a 
Report of his having discovered and explored certain lands, 
a bay, and three rivers, situated betAveen 38 and 40 degrees 
of latitude, in a small yacht of 16 tons burthen, named the 
"■ Ouj'ust" (Restless,) which had been built there. He also 
presented to their High Mightinesses a descriptive map of 
the countries he had discovered and explored. This map is 
very curious. It is drawn on parchment, about 2 feet long 
and 18 inches wide, and is executed in the most elegant 
style of art. It shows, very accurately, the situation of the 
coast from Nova Scotia to the Capes of Virginia, and the 
discoveries then made in Long Island Sound, and in the 
neighborhood of Manhattan. A fac-simile of this map is 
also in the office of the Secretary of State at Albany. 

Upon this Report, which was probably a verbal one, the 
States General were prayed /or a new special grant, in 
conformity with the provisions of the general Edict of 
27th March, 1614. The States, however. Resolved, before 
coming to any decision, to have a report in writing, which 
was accordingly drawn up and presented to them the next 
day. In that Report,* Captain Hendricksen states that on 
behalf, and for account of the owners of his ship, and 
" Directors of New Netherland," he had discovered certain 
lands, a bay, and three rivers, situated between 38 and 40 
degrees of latitude — that he traded with the natives for 
furs, — that he found the land full of valuable timber, which 
in some places Avas covered with grape vines — that he 
found the climate very similar to that of Holland, — and that 
he bought three of the native inhabitants, from the Maquas 
and Mohicans, who held them in slavery, for whom he gave 
in exchange, kettles, beads, and merchandize. 

The Report thus presented to the States General, was 
several times taken into consideration ; but nothing appears 
to have been finally done in relation to granting the special 
privilege applied for. We learn from it, however, the 



* Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 59. 



AN ADDRESS. 19 

curious, if not the important fact, that the name of the first 
vessel built by white men in this State, 230 years ago, — a 
yacht of 16 tons burthen — was the "Restless." This is 
the Register of the first vessel, of which we have any ac- 
count, belonging to the port of New York ! And what a 
prophetic name, this, for the pioneer craft of this busy, 
bustling, restless metropolis — ^whose enterprising commerce 
noAv " pushes its wharves into the sea, blocks up the wide 
rivers with its fleets, and sending its ships, the pride of naval 
architecture, to every clime, defies every wind, outrides 
every tempest, and invades every zone."* 

A further remark is ventured in connexion with this sub- 
ject. De Laet states that Captain Adriaen Block, when his 
ship, (the Tiger,) was accidentally burned in 1614, built a 
yacht with a keel 38 feet long, 44 feet from stem to stern, and 
11 1-2 feet wide, with which he sailed through Hell-Gate, 
into Long Island Sound, and explored the neighborhood as 
far as Cape Cod ; where he fell in with Hendrick Chris- 
tianse's ship, in which he embarked and returned to Holland. 
The yacht here spoken of, was doubtless the " Restless," 
which De Laet also states Block left in New Netherland 
for further use, when he returned home. Captain Hen- 
dricksen, may have been, and probably was Block's Lieuten- 
ant, or mate, to whom he left the command of the yacht, 
when he embarked for Holland in Christianse's ship ; and 
this is, 'perhaps, the reason why Hendricksen, and not 
Block, made the Report to the States General, in 1616. 

The Amsterdam Company which had received the grant 
of special trading privileges in 1614, applied to the States 
General on 4th October, 1618,f for a renewal or continuance 
of their monopoly ; but though the petitioners were allowed 
to send their ship to New Netherland, no exclusive privi- 
lege seems to have been granted, to the extent desired. 
Wagenaar, the Dutch Historian, speaks of a limited act 
of incorporation to a company of merchants, in November 
of this year ; but nothing appears on the minutes of the 



* Bancroft. t Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 91. 



20 , AN ADDRESS. 

States genera], except the simple Resolution just referred 
to. An examination of the probable motives of the con- 
duct of the States in this respect, cannot be attempted 
on this occasion. This will be the province of the future 
Historian. 

On the 12th day of February, 1620,* the Directors of the 
Company trading to* Nevv^ Netherland presented a memorial 
to the States General, of a very interesting character, and 
now for the first time made known to the American Histo- 
rian. It was addressed to the Prince of Orange. In this 
Document, the memorialists state their having for several 
years traded to New Netherland, under the authority of the 
States General : and that they have made a report and 
delivered in a map of their discoveries there. That as their 
special grant has expired, and any one is now at liberty to 
trade there, they have, for the purpose of keeping up the 
reputation of the trade, continued to send two ships thither, 
and that other ships have also been sent by other merchants 
not in their company. That there is now (1620) residing 
at Leyden, a certain English preacher, who is well versed 
in the Dutch language, and who is inclined to go to settle 
in New Netherland ; and that he has assured the memo- 
rialists that over 400 families, as well from Holland as from 
England, would go with him, to propagate the Christian 
religion and convert the savages to the true faith, and 
through the grace of the Lord, and to the glory of the 
government of the United Provinces, to colonize a " new 
Empire" there, under the auspices of the States General, 
and the Prince of Orange ; provided they be protected and 
defended from the attacks of other powers, by the Govern- 
ment of the United Provinces. That the memorialists have 
learned that the King of Great Britain is disposed to colo- 
nize New Netherland with British subjects, and forcibly 
deprive them of their possessions and of the benefits of 
their discoveries there, as well as the Government of the 
United Provinces of their rights. That there is danger that 

« Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 95.— See Note B., post. 



AN ADDRESS. 21 

their vessels which are now there, may be surprised by the 
English ; and that on account of the considerations stated 
above, they pray that the preacher and 400 families may be 
taken under the protection of the Government, and that two 
ships of war may be sent to secure the possession of New 
Netherland — " which may be of great importance, when 
the West India Company shall be finally organized." 

This interesting memorial was several times under the 
consideration of the States General. Had its prayer been 
granted, Robinson, and his Puritan followers would probably 
have landed on the shores of New Netherland, in all the 
"pomp and circumstance" of naval etiquette. The can- 
non of the Dutch war-ships would have saluted their de- 
barcation ; and the persecuted and rejected for conscience- 
sake, of England, would have found an asylum, under the 
protection of the flag of the United Provinces. The 
"Preacher at Leyden," and his devoted band, would have 
unfurled the standard of the cross, and taught the faith to 
the savages on the shores of the Hudson. The men who 
" on the rich and the eloquent, on nobles and priests looked 
down with contempt ;" who " esteemed themselves rich 
in a more precious treasure, and eloquent in a more 
sublime language ; nobles by the right of an earlier 
creation, and priests by the imposition of a mightier 
hand,"* would not then, perhaps, have landed, unbefriended 
and unwelcomed, " on a stern and rock-bound coast ;" but 
would have anchored in a secure and beautiful haven, wel- 
comed to colonize the " New Empire" they desired to found 
on the shores of the Hudson, under the auspices and pro- 
tection of those, whose " good and courteous entreaty," in 
their Fatherland, could never be forgotten. And Plymouth 
Rock, would not, perhaps, now be marked by a grateful 
posterity, as the spot where their forefathers first touched 
the New World ! 

But whatever may have been the causes — and we can- 
not now stop to examine them — the States General, after 
repeated deliberations on the subject, finally resolved, on 

* Macaulay. 



22 AN ADDRESS. 

the 11th day of April, 1620,* to reject the prayer of the 
memorialists. The consequences of this determination are 
hard to be fully estimated at this day. It may have decided, — 
it, very probably, materially influenced the destinies of our 
country. 

Some of our Historians have favored the idea that the 
" Mayflower," in which the Puritans embarked at Delft- 
Haven, in July, 1620, (three months after the rejection, by 
the States General, of the petition just referred to,) was 
taken to Plymouth, by the ignorance and self-will, if not 
the treachery of the captain, and against the wishes of the 
passengers, who, it is alleged, were desirous to go to the 
Hudson River. But besides the reasons which have 
already been brought forward against this opinion, a new 
and weighty one seems to result from the Petition of Febru- 
ary, 1620, and its rejection by the States General. Robin- 
son desired to colonize " a new empire" in New Nether- 
land, under the auspices and protection of the United Pro- 
vinces. That Government having formally rejected the 
petition, and declined giving the protection of the ships of 
war that were asked for, it is more than probable that the 
Puritans, when they left Holland, themselves preferred to 
settle in some part of North America, beyond the Dutch 
Frontier. 

The records of the States General oi" the 29th August, 
1620,f show that the necessity of the organization of a 
general West India Company, was becoming every day more 
apparent. On that day, the owners of the ship Blyde 
Bootschap, (good news,) Captain Cornells Jacobsen May, 
presented a Petition, stating further discoveries they had 
made in New Netherland, and asking for a special edict 
in their favor ; and at the same time an opposing Peti- 
tion was presented by Henry Elkens, and others, pray- 
ing their High Mightinesses to refuse to pass any grant in 
favor of any other persons than themselves. The States 
General, upon this, called both parties into their presence, 

* Hoi. Doc, Vol. l,p. 103. t Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 104. 



AN ADDRESS. 23 

and directed them to meet together and try to arrange their 
differences, amicably. But it seems that these differences and 
jealousies were irreconcilable : for on the 6th of November,* 
three months afterwards — the committee of the States Gene- 
ral — Messrs. Pauw and Fervan, to whom the matter was re- 
ferred, reported that they had patiently investigated the differ- 
ences between the parties, for the purpose of bringing them 
to agreement, but that they were not able to accomplish 
their object. Whereupon, the States General resolved to 
refuse the new grant as petitioned for. 

We find, accordingly, that the next year, (3d June, 1621) 
the States General established by law, the famous " Char- 
tered West India Company." The provisions of this cele- 
brated grant are so well known to the historian, that it is 
unnecessary to refer to them on this occasion. The en- 
couragement and protection of New Netherland, though 
not the main object of the establishment of the company, 
may certainly be presumed to have entered into the consid- 
erations that induced the charter. The repeated applica- 
tions for special trading privileges, very probably became 
somewhat annoying ; and the necessity of some general 
regulation on the subject, apparent. The Company, how- 
ever did not commence its operations till the year 1623 ; 
and we find that in the interim, on the 28th September, 
1621,-|- the States General granted to Claes Jacobsen Har- 
ingcaspel, formerly a Schepen of the City of Amsterdam, 
Peter Plancius, Minister of the Gospel, Lambrecht Van 
Tweenhuysen, Hans Claessen, and others, a special privi- 
lege of sending two ships to New Netherland. 

We now come to another very interesting and novel point 
in the History of our State. While the Government of the 
United Provinces was gradually becoming aware of the 
existence of New Netherland, the English Government was 
not inattentive to the progress of the Dutch Colony. The 
subject seems to have been brought particularly before the 
notice of the Privy Council by the Virginia Company ; for, 

* Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 106. t Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 1 13. 



24 AN ADDRESS, 

on the 15th day of December, 1621, a letter was addressed 
to Sir Dudley Carleton, the English Ambassador at the 
Hague, directing him to bring the subject of the Dutch 
Plantation in North America, under the special notice of 
the States General, As this document is the earliest one 
yet met with, in which the British Government seem dis- 
tinctly to have asserted the unlawfulness of the Dutch 
Colony, it may not be amiss to quote it at length. The 
Council say* — " Whereas his Majesty's subjects have, many 
years since, taken possession of the whole precinct, and 
inhabited some parts of the north of Virginia, (by us called 
New England,) of all which countries His Majesty hath, in 
like manner, some years since, by Patent granted the quiet 
and full possession unto particular persons, nevertheless we 
understand, that the year past, the Hollanders have entered 
upon some part thereof, and have left a Colony and given 
new names to the several ports appertaining to that part 
of the country, and are now in readiness to send for their 
supply six or eight ships, — Whereof His Majesty being ad- 
vertised, we have received his Royal Commandment to sig- 
nify his pleasure that you should represent these things to 
the States General, in his Majesty's name, (who,^'Mre primcB 
occupationis, hath good and sufficient title to those parts) 
and require of them, that as well those ships, as their 
further prosecution of that Plantation may be presently 
stayed." 

Sir Dudley Carleton, on the receipt of this Despatch, pro- 
ceeded to make enquiries on the subject, before he brought 
it under the notice of the States, In his reply to the Coun- 
cil,! ^6 says that all he could find out about the matter was, 
that, about four or five years previously, two companies of 
Amsterdam merchants began a trade to America, between 
40 and 45 degrees of latitude, to which they gave the names 
of New Netherland, North and South Sea, Texel, Vrieland, 
and the like — that they have ever since continued to send 
there, ships of 30 or 40 lasts (60 or 80 tons) at most, to fetch 

* London Doc. Vol. 1, p. 17. t London Doc. Vol. 1, p. 19. 



AN ADDRESS. 25 

furs, which is all their trade ; for which purpose they have 
factors continually resident there, trading with the sava- 
ges — but that he cannot learn that any colony has as yet 
been planted there, or is as much as intended, &c. That 
upon obtaining these facts, he asked an audience of the 
States General, and presented a written memorial in con- 
formity to the instructions of the Privy Council. This me- 
morial appears to have been referred, by the States General, 
to the Deputies from Holland, upon their request, in order 
to inform themselves of the state of the affair, of which they 
pretended to be ignorant.* No copy of it was found in the 
archives at the Hague. A copy however, transmitted by 
Carleton, was found in the State Paper office in London. 
No distinct action seems to have been taken by the States, 
on this memorial. On the 16th of March, 1622,f more than 
two months after it was presented, the States, upon Carle- 
ton's asking that some order be taken upon it, resolved that 
the " participants in the trade to New Netherland" be writ- 
ten to for information on the subject. The States evidently 
knew little or nothing about the matter. No letter in reply 
to this resolution has been found in their Archives ; and it 
is at least doubtful whether any answer was ever returned 
to the British Government ; either through Sir Dudley Carle- 
ton, or through the Dutch Ambassador at London, Sir Noel 
Caron. No copy of a despatch to either, on this subject, has 
been found at the Hague. It is true, that Captain John 
Mason, in writing to Secretary Coke, on 2d April, 1632j-^— 
ten years afterwards — in referring to this very matter, 
speaks of an answer of Caron, the Dutch Ambassador, at Lon- 
don, in which, in behalf of the States General, he disclaimed 
and disavowed any such proceedings in reference to New 
Netherland, as the j^rivy Council had complained of, and re- 
fers to Lords Baltimore and Arundel as recollecting the 
circumstance :§ but no letter of Caron, to this effect, has been 

* Carleton's letter to the Privy Council, Lond. Doc, Vol. 1, p, 20. 
t Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 117. t London Doc, Vol. 1, p. 47. 

§ In this letter. Mason says the Dutch at Manahata built ships there, " whereof 
sne was sent into Holland, of COO tunnes, or thereabouts." 

3 



26 AN ADDRESS. 

found, though a careful search was made for it, both in the Ar- 
chives at the Hague, and in the State Paper office in London. 

History has already asserted that Manhattan Island, 
upon which this city is built, was purchased from the abo- 
rigines, by our Dutch forefathers. The earliest authority 
hitherto known, is De Laet, who tells us that the Directors 
of the West India Company, in furtherance of the objects of 
their incorporation, had built a small Fort on the upper part 
of the North River, in latitude 43° or thereabouts, which 
they called " t'Fort Van Orangien," and also " another Fort, 
"of greater importance at the mouth of the river, upon an 
" Island called Manhattes, or Manhattans, because the same 
" formerly belonged to this nation of Indians, and was by 
" them, sold to the Company. Here, our people have, as it 
" were, established their head-quarters, or principal Colony, 
" and named it New Amsterdam." This statement is found 
in the second edition of De Laet's History, published in 1630. 
It is not found in the first edition of 1625, (a translation of 
which is contained in the last volume of the Collections of 
this Society,) and for the reason that the Island was not pur- 
chased till 1626 ; the evidence of which exists in the " Hol- 
land Documents" of the Agency. 

On the 5th of November, 1626,* Mr. Schagen, the Deputy 
of the States General to the meeting of the West India 
Company at Amsterdam, thus writes to their High Mighti- 
nesses at the Hague. — " Yesterday arrived the vessel, ' The 
" Arms of Amsterdam.' She left New Netherland, on the 
*' 23d of September, from the river Mauritius, bringing 
" advices that our people there live wisely and peacefully. 
•' Their wives also bear children ; and they have bought the 
" Island of Manhattan from the savages for the value of sixty 
*^ guilders. It contains 11,000 morgens of land" — &c., &c. 
The original title-deed of this city, we thus learn, bore date 
about the year 1626 ; and the consideration paid, for the 
whole island, (whose contents were then estimated to be 
about 22,000 acres,) was about Twenty-four Dollars, of our 
present currency ! ! 

* Hoi. Doc. Vol. 1, p. 155. 



AN ADDRESS. 27 

An incident occurred in the year 1632, which gave rise 
to a more distinct assertion, on the part of the British Go- 
vernment, of its sovereignty over New Netherland. On 
the 5th of April, in that year,* the Directors of the West 
India Company, gave notice to the Deputy of the States 
General who attended their meeting at Amsterdam, that 
one of their ships named the " Eendragt," (Unity) coming 
from New Netherland, and which had put in at Plymouth, 
had been arrested and detained there by the English autho- 
rities. The States General, after deliberation on the sub- 
ject, resolved that their Ambassadors at London, Joachimi, 
and Brasser, should be written to, in order that they should 
exert themselves to have the ship set at liberty ; and a let- 
ter was acccordingly sent. 

The Ambassadors presented the subject to King Charles I., 
in an audience which they had in the early part of April. 
They statedf that the ship had come from New Netherland, 
where the subjects of their High Mightinessess had, for a 
long time, carried on a peaceable traffic, and had, more- 
over, several years ago, planted a colony on a certain Island 
named Manhattan, situated on a river so named, and which 
they had bought from the savages. That, till now, they 
had been accustomed to enter into and depart from the ports 
and havens of His Majesty, without any hindrance, but that 
lately a ship coming from that quarter, had been arrested 
for having traded, (as alleged,) within the jurisdiction of 
His Majesty. 

The King replied, that the Governor of Plymouth had 
already advised him of the circumstances of the arrest ; and 
that some time ago, upon the complaint of his father. King 
James I., the States General had interdicted their subjects from 
trading in that quarter. But, he added, that he could not 
then say, exactly, what the situation of the affair was ; and 
that he would inform himself more particularly about it. 
Upon the Ambassadors urging a provisional discharge of 
the ship, the King said he could do nothing on the subject, 
as long as he was not quite sure what his rights were. 

« Hoi. Doc. Vol. 1, p. 187. t Hoi. Doc. Vol. 1, p. 200, 



28 AN ADDRESS. 

The Ambassadors then desire the States General to send 
them such documentary evidence as will serve io maintain 
and prove the right of the Dutch to trade to New Nether- 
land ; w^hich they add, " M^ill undoubtedly be most sharply 
disputed by the English Government." 

On the 5th of May,* the Directors of the West India Compa- 
ny again wrote to the States General, upon this subject. They 
say that they have received a letter from the Ambassadors 
at London, of the same date as the one to the States General 
above referred to, in which it is stated that Peter Minuit, of 
Wesel, Director on behalf of the Company, hi New Nether- 
land, and Jan Lampo, of Cantelburgh, Sellout upon the Island 
of Manhattan^ who had come passengers in the Eendragt, had 
informed them of the arrest of that ship ; and that they had, 
thereupon, had an audience of the King upon the subject. 
That they had also spoken to some of the members of the 
Privy Council, about the matter, and had received, in sub- 
stance, the same answer as that which the King had given 
them. The Directors then proceed to give the States Ge- 
neral a statement or deduction of their title to New Neth- 
erland. They say that the North River, commonly called 
the Manhattes, or River of the Mountains, was first disco- 
vered in the year 1609, by Dutch subjects. That it was 
again visited by them in 1610, and the following years ; 
and that finally in the year 1615, their High Mightinesses 
gave a special Octroy to certain of their subjects to trade 
there, to the exclusion of all other persons. That a fort and 
garrison had been established there, which had been main- 
tained until the passing of the Charter of the West India 
Company, which included those territories, along with 
others. That in the year 1606, His Britannic Majesty had 
granted Special Patents to certain of his subjects, for the 
territories to the North and South of this River, under the 
names of New England and Virginia ; with an express pro- 
vision that there should be an interval of one hundred miles 
between them, which was to remain always so. That, 

*Hol. Doc. Vol. 1, p. 209. 



AN ADDRESS. 29 

thereupon, the English began a settlement upon the River 
Sagadahoc ; which being given up, they again began a 
new Colony to the North of New Netherland, in the year 
1620, which they called New Plymouth. That the English, 
according to their patent, reckon New England between 
the 41st and 45th degrees of north latitude. That Virginia, 
which the English began to settle in 1606, is to the south- 
ward of New Netherland, and extends, according to their 
Patent, from 37 to 39 degrees of north latitude. So that, 
according to their own showing, the territory between the 
39th and the 41st degrees, is left open to the Dutch. The 
Directors then refer to the Octroy of 11th October, 1014, for 
the limits assigned to the Dutch traders by the States Ge- 
neral ; and add, that in respect to the representation alle- 
ged by King Charles to have been made by his Father, to 
the States General, &c., they have no knowledge of the 
matter. 

Upon the receipt of this communication of the West India 
Company, the States General wrote to their Ambassadors 
at London,* to exert themselves to procure the release of 
the ship. They likewise sent a copy of it, together with a 
copy of the Octroy of II th October, 1614, adding, that they 
expect by means of these Documents the right of the West In- 
dia Company to trade to New Netherland ca7i be 7naintained. 

The Ambassadors accordingly drew up a Memorial,! 
which they addressed to the King ; and in which the claims 
of the Dutch to New Netherland were stated at length. To 
this memorial a full and explicit answer was returned by 
the English Government. They say : J " In the fourth and 
*' last place, they (the Dutch) ask for the liberation of a ship 
" arrested at Plymouth, returning from a certain Plantation 
" usurped by them in the northern parts of Virginia, which 
" they say they have bought from the Aboriginal Savages 
" of the country. But, in the first place, we deny that the 
*' Savages were the bona-fide possessors of those countries, 



* Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 219. t Hoi. Doc, Vol 1, p. 248. 

X Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 236. 
3* 



30 AN ADDRESS. 

" in such a manner (en sorte que) that they could dispose of 
" them, either by sale or by gift ; their habitations being 
'•' moveable and uncertain, and every thing being in com- 
" mon : And, in the second place, it cannot be proved, de 
^' facto, that all the Savages had contracted with the pur- 
" chasers in this pretended sale. And in respect to what 
" they say, that the said Savages have their dwellings all 
" around them, the truth is, that the English surround them 
" on all sides, which they have before now^ seen when they 
" attempted to maintain their rights against them. Besides 
" this, the right which His Majesty's subjects have to this 
" country is justified by the first discovery, occupation, and 
" possession w'hich they have made of them, and by the con- 
" cessions, and letters patents which they have had from our 
" Sovereigns, who, for these reasons, were the true and le- 
" gitimate proprietors : which the States General had not 
" in themselves ; and they have never attributed to them- 
" selves such a pretension, nor have they ever passed any 
" patent to their subjects to give them any title or power in 
" this respect. This was proved in the year 1621, when 
"the late King, of blessed memory, upon the complaint and 
" remonstrance of the Earl of Arundel, Sir Fernando Gorges, 
" Sir Samuel Argol, and Captain Mason, ordered his Am- 
" bassador to desire the States General to prohibit the de- 
" parture of certain vessels which were preparing to go to 
" the said land, and to forbid their subjects to enter into the 
" said Plantation, — for then their reply was, that they did 
" not know any thing of such an enterprize ; which was very 
" probably the case, because the said Ambassador, after 
"having informed himself more particularly of the state of 
" the matter, certified His Majesty by his letters, that it was 
" only two Companies of Merchants of Amsterdam, who, 
♦' without the privity or knowledge of the said Lord's States 
« General, had commenced to trade between the 40th and 
" 50th degree, within the limits of His Majesty's Plantation 
" of Virginia, in that country, and had given to those places 
" the names of New Netherland, Texel, Vlieland, and the 
*• like, and sent ships of 30 and 40 lasts (burthen,) to collect 



AN ADDRESS. 31 

" furs in those quarters ; but that he could not learn that 
" they had commenced or even designed to establish a Plan- 
" tation there ; and that he had further reason to believe 
" this, because, about the same time, a considerable number 
" of families, inhabitants of the United Provinces, came to 
" solicit him to procure for them a place in the said country, 
" where they might settle themselves among the subjects of 
" His Majesty. And so, if those who have now just arrived 
" from there, and the rest who are there settled, are willing to 
" make a like request, and submit themselves to the Go- 
" vernment of His Majesty, as his subjects, it can be ascer- 
" tained whether it will please him to admit them in that 
" quality, and therefore permit them to go there with their 
" ships and merchandize, or to sell the same here at the best 
" price they can ; Provided, the States General promise to 
*' prevent them from going to or frequenting those quarters, 
" in any other character. To which, if they do not consent, 
" His Majesty's interests cannot allow him to permit them 
" thus to usurp and encroach upon a Colony of such impor- 
" tance, and which he has strong motives to cherish and 
*' maintain in its integrity." 

No apology is offered for the quotation, at length, of the 
translation of this important Diplomatic paper. The 
strenuous vindication of the British right of sovereignty 
over New Netherland, was followed, a few days after, by 
an act of grace ; and on the 27th of May,* 1632, the Dutch 
Ambassadors at London acquainted the States General that 
the Lord High Treasurer had agreed to release the " Een- 
dragt" from arrest, with a proviso saving any prejudice 
to His Majesty's rights. 

In connexion with this subject, a reference is ventured to 
another curious and interesting paper, forming part of the 
" London Documents." It is a translation of a letter of 
Wouter Van Twiller, Director in New Netherland, to the 
Governor of the English Colony at the Massachusetts Bay, 
respecting the Dutch settlement on the Connecticut River ; 



* Hoi. Doc, Vol. 1, p. 244 



32 AN ADDRESS. 

dated at Fort Amsterdam, the "'th^'ctotr:* 1633. This Docu- 
ment was found in the State Paper Office, in London. 
Van Twiller, in this letter,* expresses his surprise at the 
English objecting to the Dutch having taken possession of 
that part of the country ; and wishes them to defer their 
" pretence or claim" to it, till the States General, and the 
King of England agree about their respective limits in 
America ; as he is desirous they should live " as good neigh- 
bors in these heathenishe countryes." He adds, " I have, in 
" the name of the Lords the States Generall, and the au- 
" thorized West India Company, taken possession of the 
" forementioned River, and for testimony thereof, have sett 
" up an house on the North side of the said River, with 
" intent to plant, &c. Itt's not the intent of the States to 
" take the land from the poore Natives, as the Kinge of 
" Spaine hath done, by the Pope's Donation, but rather to 
" take itt from the said Natives at some reasonable and con- 
" venient price, which, God be praysed, we have done 
" hitherto. In this parte of the world are divers heathen 
" lands that are emptye of inhabitants, so that of a little 
" parte or portion thereof, there needes not any question. 
" I should bee very sorrye that wee should bee occasion that 
" the Kinge's Ma''" of England and the Lords the States 
" General should fall into anye contention." 

So much of your time has already been occupied with 
specific details, that the contents of the " Holland Docu- 
ments," subsequent to 1G32, must be very briefly and cur- 
sorily adverted to. 

Among these, may be noticed the proceedings of the 
States General, in 1634, respecting the differences which 
had thus early broken out between the West India Company, 
and the Patroons, or heads of Colonies, in New Netherland. 
The statement of the Patroons, and the answer of the 
Company, and the Replication ; and the final shuffling off 
of a decision by the States. We find also the correspond- 
ence between the States General, and their Ambassador at 

* London Documents, Vol. 1, p. 53. 



AN ADDRESS. 33 

London, respecting a complaint made by English merchants 
against the Dutch in New Netherland, for interrupting their 
commerce &c., in 1633 — the memorial of the West India 
Company to tha States, on the subject, with a deduction of 
their title to the country — and the final Resolution* of their 
High Mightinesses that they cannot interfere in the matter, 
which must take its own course — at the same time hinting 
to the Company that they had better confer about the affair 
with Boswell, the English Ambassador at the Hague. 

We also find it stated that on the 2d of September, 1637,f 
the West India Company prayed the States General to issue 
a commission for William Kieft as Director in New Nether- 
land, in place of Wouter Van Twyller ; which was agreed 
to ; and that Kieft accordingly appeared before the meet- 
ing and the oath of office was administered to him. 

We learn, also, that on the 26th of April, 1636, J the 
States General took the important, and long delayed step of 
giving formal countenance to New Netherland, by instruct- 
ing their deputies to the meeting of the West India Com- 
pany, to endeavor to promote its colonization, and to pledge 
the faith of the States ^/m^ they shall not he dispossessed by any 
foreign power ; and that subsequently, on 13th March, 1640, 
they again instructed their deputies to the West India Com- 
pany to exert themselves that the inhabitants of New 
Netherland may be put in the best condition. 

These Documents also contain a correspondence between 
the Dutch Ambassadors at London, and the States, about 
the troubles between New England and New Netherland, 
in 1642. Memorials, also, presented in 1643 to the States 
by inhabitants of New Netherland, complaining of the 
conduct of the West India Company ; and the defence of 
the Company in 1645. The proceedings of the States 
General upon the Commission and Instructions of Stuyve- 
sant, as Director, &c. in New Netherland. Their refusal to 
ratify them until they had ascertained what disposition the 



* Hoi. Doc, Vol. 2, p. 144. t Hoi. Doc, Vol. 2, p. 183, 

J Hoi. Doc, Vol. 2,p. 188. 



34 AN ADDRESS. 

Company had made of the complaints against them from 
New Netherland — and finally the statement of Stuyvesant's 
appearing, in person, before their meeting at the Hague, and 
taking his oath of office on 28th July, 1646.* 

We find, also, that the States General in the year 1648, 
looked carefully into the affairs of the West India Company, 
and appointed a special Committee of examination, whose 
report contains much valuable and interesting matter. 

In 1649, we have full details of the proceedings of the 
States General upon the memorial of the Committee of the 
"Gemeente" or Commonalty of New Netherland, complain- 
ing of the conduct of the authorities there. This memorial 
is the famous " Vertoogh," which was probably drawn up 
by Van der Donck, the Historian ; and contains a sketch of 
New Netherland from its discovery, to 1649. The answer 
of the West India Company to the charges against them by 
the " Gemeente," (which contain 68 specific points of com- 
plaint,) is a curious and very interesting Document ; and is 
supposed to have been drawn up by Cornells Van Tien- 
hoven, the Secretary in New Netherland, as the original is 
in his hand-writing. The w^hole of these proceedings, 
which are too voluminous to be even briefly sketched, on 
this occasion, will be found at length, in the " Holland 
Documents ;" and form very valuable additions to our His- 
torical materials. 

So many complaints had been made, from time to time, to 
the States General, against Stuyvesant, that they resolved, 
on the 27th of April, 1652,t to recall him to Holland, to give 
an account of the state of affairs in New Netherland. But 
the relations with England, at this juncture, becoming very 
critical, the States rescinded their Resolution, and directed 
Van der Donck, to whom the letter was entrusted, to deliver 
it up again ; and in July following, we find their High Mighti- 
nesses passing a secret Resolution to send a Frigate for the 
protection of New Netherland against the English, and 
writing to Stuyvesant that, in the present aspect of affairs 



* Hoi. Doc. Vol. 3, p. 83. +HoI. Doc, Vol. 6, p. 123, 



AN ADDRESS. 35 

between England and the United Provinces, it is especially 
needful for him to keep a careful watch, and employ no 
person in office, of whose devotion to the State he is not per- 
fectly assured. 

In 1653 and 1654 we meet with many interesting Docu- 
ments, respecting the question of the boundaries of New 
Netherland ; and in the year 1656, a very voluminous detail 
of the circumstances of the ejection of the Swedes from 
the South River, and of the negotiations of the West India 
Company with the City of Amsterdam, for the transfer of a 
part of their territory on that river. In 1660, the differences 
between the Dutch and Lord Baltimore figure very largely 
in these Documents ; and down to 1664, we find a volumi- 
nous correspondence between the functionaries on the South 
River and the Government of the City of Amsterdam, re- 
specting their Colony there, as well as diplomatic corres- 
pondence between the Swedish Ambassador and the States 
General, on the subject of the capture in 1655. 

In 1664, we find a detailed account of the proceedings of 
the States General in reference to the surrender of New 
Netherland — correspondence with the Ambassadors at Lon- 
don, and the Hague, on this subject, and many novel and 
interesting particulars in relation to this matter, and the 
subsequent differences with England. 

After the surrender, we find that Stuyvesant returned to 
Holland, for the purpose of making a report of his adminis- 
tration of the Goverimient of New Netherland ; and that 
on the 9th October, 1665,* he submitted a memorial on the 
subject, to the States General, with accompanying papers, 
which are highly interesting. The West India Company in 
1666, presented to the States opposing papers, and Stuyve- 
sant, further Documents, all of which will he read with 
interest, and furnish rich materials for the Historian. 

We must here arrest any further reference to the contents 
of the " Holland Documents." There are several points of 
interest which have not been touched ; but the limits of an 



« Hoi. Doc, Vol. 9, p. 207. 



30 AN ADDRESS. 

address of this character, will not allow us to go into further 
details. To the future Historian will belong the grateful 
duty of developing their full value. 

The " Dutch Colonial Records" at Albany, commence with 
1638,* and contain, perhaps, more details of a personal char- 
acter, than the " Holland Documents," which^relate chiefly 
to the official proceedings of the States General, in regard to 
New Netherland, and the West India Company. It was 
hoped that some of the deficiencies in the Archives at the 
Hague, would have been supplied by the papers of that 
Company ; but their unfortunate destruction, while it de- 
prives us of much interesting information M^hich we had 
hoped to obtain, increases the value of our own Dutch 
Colonial Records at Albany, in the eyes of the Historian, 
and renders still more important, the more general Docu- 
ments at the Hague. 

The " Paris Documents," will now claim your attention, 
for a few moments only ; as our time, and your patience \vill 
not permit more than a passing glance at some of the more 
important. 

The contents of these volumes, relate, chiefly, to the trans- 
actions of the French officials in Canada, affecting the 
neighboring British Colonies, particularly New York ; and 
to their negotiations with the Indian tribes on the frontier. 
The Documents selected, include copies of Despatches and 
Instructions from the French Court, to their officers in the 
Colony, and letters and journals sent by the French authori- 
ties in Canada to the Government at home, and having 
reference to subjects more or less intimately connected with 
our own Colonial History.f 

Among these, may be noticed the treaties with the Indians 
in 1(565, and 1666, and a very curious paper of the latter 

* There are a few records of conveyances of land, of an earlier date ; but 
nonfe of these earlier than 1630. 

t The excellent work of Charlevoix will of course, ever continue a valuable 
standard in our Libraries ; but the possession of many of the original authorities 
from which he wrote, cannot but be a source of much congratulation to the Histori- 
an of this State. 



AN ADDRESS. 37- 

year, giving an account of the Iroquois tribes, with illustra- 
tive draw^ings, showing their peculiar and distinctive armo- 
rial bearings, &c. The accounts of the expedition of M. 
de Courcelles, on Lake Ontario, in 1671 ; and of M. de 
Frontenac in 1673, with his interviews with the Indians 
during the summer, will be read with much interest and 
pleasure. The correspondence between the Court, and M. 
M. de Frontenac, and De la Barre, is very important to our 
Historians, as showing the private views of the French au- 
thorities respecting the English neighboring Colonies ; and 
the instructions as to the conduct to be observed towards 
Governor Dongan, and the correspondence between that 
functionary and the French Governors in Canada, will be 
found of much value. 

The Marquis de Denonville's administration of the Gov- 
ernment of Canada was fruitful of interesting incident ; 
and his despatches and memoirs home, are voluminous and 
exact. We find him urging on the home Government, very 
strongly, the necessity of subjugating the Indian tribes to the 
French dominion ; and his accounts of his expeditions against 
them, and his correspondence with the Governor of New 
York, show an ardent desire to extend the sovereignty of the 
Fleur de lis over the northern portion of our Continen^t. 

In 1689, and 1690, we find many very interesting docu- 
ments. Among them, M. de Calliere's various memorials 
to the French Government, upon the subject of the proposed 
conquest of New York, and plans, in detail, for its accom- 
plishment. These views w^ere adopted by Seignelay, the 
Minister of the Marine ; and we have the General Instruc- 
tions given to M. de Frontenac, upon his re-appointment as 
Governor of Canada, on 7th June, 1689; as well as the 
private instructions given, at the same time, in reference to 
the proposed conquest of this Province. Charlevoix has 
already given us the main facts ; — but we have not hereto- 
fore learned the full details of the proposed expedition. 
That Albany was to be surprised and captured, while Man- 
hattan was at the same time to be invested and reduced. 
That no " suspected persons" were to be left in the Province ;. 
4 



38 AN ADDRESS. 

their effects to be inventoried for the benefit of the King, 
and such as can only be sold in France, to be sent there. 
That " Catholics of fidelity" were to be left in the enjoyment 
of their property, after having taken the oath of allegiance ; 
and that the officers and principal inhabitants from whom 
ransoms could be obtained, w^ere to be kept in prison. That 
all the other men, and women, and children were to be sent 
to New England, or Pennsylvania, or any other place, 
" separately or all together" — and that whatever fugitive 
French — particularly those of the Pretended Reformed Reli- 
gion, were found here, were to be sent back to France. 
That the English settlements and dwellings near Manhat- 
tan, were to be destroyed, as soon as possible, and those fur- 
ther off to be laid under contribution ; and that M. de 
Calliere, who was appointed to the Government of the 
conquered territory, was to take care to make a solid and 
advantageous peace with the Indians, who undoubtedly 
would be disposed to ask it, after being deprived of the 
countenance of the English. 

It will be noticed that this Instruction was given to Fron- 
tenac, about four years after the memorable revocation of 
the Edict of Nantes. 

Am,ong these Documents, we also find a remarkable and 
curious paper, — a letter written by Monsieur de Monseignat, 
" Controleur General de la Marine," in Canada, to Madame 
de Maintenon, (as it is presumed,) giving a full detail of the 
occurrences in Canada until the month of November, 1690. 
This paper contains a graphic and original account of the 
attack and burning of Schenectady, in February of that 
year, and will be read with deep interest. 

"We find also, very important details, in the various Jour- 
nals from time to time sent to Paris, of Canadian affairs. 
Letters between Lord Bellomont, and Count Frontenac — 
accounts of the progress of the French occupancy of our ter- 
ritory — of the forts built upon Lakes Ontario, Champlain, and 
Horikan ; and of the negotiations with the Onondagas, and 
other tribes of Indians within our present borders. Among 
these papers we may notice a plan of the elevation &c., of 



AN ADDRESS. 39 

the fort at the mouth of the Oswego, in 1727 ; and a map 
made by the French, of the country between the head of 
Lake Champlain, and Albany, which exhibits a very curious 
specimen of their geographical knowledge in the year 1731. 

Passing over many interesting points in the intervening 
period, we find the Commission and Instructions* of the 
unfortunate Baron de Dieskau, for the command of the 
French forces in North America, dated 1st March, 1755 ; 
and the private instructions to M. de Vaudreuil, who was 
appointed to succeed M. Duquesne, as Governor General of 
Canada, on the 1st of April of that year.f On the 16th of 
August, we find Dieskau writing in good spirits, that he is 
about to set out against the English, " whose projects he 
hopes to derange ;" and on the 14th of September following, 
he dates a letter to the minister, at the English camp on 
Lake " St. Sacrement," in which he gives an account of his 
defeat, complains of the treason of his Indian allies, and 
speaks in the highest terms of General Johnson, whose con- 
duct was what might be expected from " a gallant man, 
full of honor and sentiment," and without whose interfer- 
ence, he says, he " would inevitably have been burnt to 
death by the Indians." 

M. de Vaudreuil, the Governor of Canada, thought it 
necessary to review quite at length, the conduct of M. 
Dieskau, in a despatch to the Minister, of 25th of Septem- 
ber. J This letter, with those of the Chevalier de Montreuil, 
give us very important details of the expedition; and an 
imaginary conversation in the Elysian Fields, between 
Marshal Saxe and Baron Dieskau,l| in which the latter 
tells his own story of his defeat, will be read with the 
greatest interest. It may here be stated, that Baron Dies- 
kau was sent prisoner to New York, and from thence to 
England, where he resided, at Bath, in 1757, and 1758, in 
great pecuniary distress ; and was finally exchanged at the 
peace of 1763. 



•Paris Doc, Vol. 11, p. 34. + Paris Doc, Vol. 11, p. 47. 

t Paris Doc, Vol. 11, p. 125. ^ || Paris Doc, Vol. 11, 188. 



40 AN ADDRESS. 

On the 1st of March, 1756,* the Marquis de Montcalm 
received his commission as Commandant in Canada, in 
place of Baron Dieskau. On the 28th of August following, 
this gallant and brave soldier, writing to the minister the 
details of the capture of Oswego, speaks in no very flatter- 
ing terms of the conduct of the British garrison there, and 
says that the " transplanted English are not the same as 
the English of Europe ;" and in reference to the conduct of 
the Indians, observes, that he " cannot dissimulate that 
there was a little pillage, which had to be tolerated. It is 
difficult to hinder 300 savages and 1500 Canadians making 
a quarry." 

In the succeeding year, the details of the French opera- 
tions on Lakes Champlain and Horikan, occupy a large 
space. On the 15th of August, 1757-f, Montcalm writes to 
the minister an account of the attack on Fort George, and 
its surrender ; and adds that " he cannot conceal that the 
capitulation has, unfortunately, sufiered some infractions on 
the part of the savages." It need scarcely be added, that 
the correspondence of M. M. de Vaudreuil and Montcalm 
with the French Government, and with the British Gener- 
als, on this subject, is of the greatest interest ; and will be 
read with avidity by the historian, as well as by those who 
have been charmed (and who has not ?) with the brilliant 
and thrilling narrative in the " Last of the Mohicans," and 
the additional interest that has been thrown around this 
story of our border wars, by the genius of one of the most 
gifted of the sons of our State. 

The remaining volumes of the *' Paris Documents," from 
1758 to 1763, are filled with official details of the gradual 
decline of the French influence in North America, and of 
the advance of the British to supremacy. We have long 
despatches from M. M. de Vaudreuil and Montcalm, filled 
with recrimination. The Governor General blaming Mont- 
calm for not fulfilling his instructions, and doing more ; and 
the Commandant reflecting, in turn, upon the Governor, for 

♦ Paris Doc, Vol. 12, p. 26. + Paris Doc, Vol. 13, p. 218. 



AN ADDRESS. 41 

not furnishing the requisite supplies of war. Gloomy ac- 
counts of the wretched situation of Canada, arising out of 
the scarcity of all kinds of provisions, and the distresses 
consequent on a war in which the militia of the country 
were forced to neglect their fields and harvests. Mont- 
calm's foreboding letters to the minister — the disparity of 
his forces, as compared with those of the English — but his 
unconquerable determination to uphold the honor and glory 
of his King, to the last extremity. The details of the last 
brilliant effort of the brave French warrior, against the no 
less gallant English General, and of the fall of both leaders 
before Quebec — of the surrender of the city, followed by 
that of Montreal — and of the final triumph of the Red 
Cross of St. George over the banner of the Bourbon. 

The documents obtained in the British archives, though 
far greater in number, and, perhaps, in some respects, of 
higher intrinsic value than those procured in Holland, and 
in France, must be passed by, without review. It would 
indeed, be impossible, at present, even to glance, satisfacto- 
rily, at the contents of some forty-seven folio volumes, of the 
character of those which compose the " London Documents" 
embracing a period of one hundred and sixty eight years, 
from 1614 to 1782, and including the official correspon- 
dence of the Governors of New York, from Nicholls to 
Robertson, with the authorities at Whitehall. 

Gentlemen, — On the 20th day of November, 1804, a few 
of our citizens " being assembled in the Picture Room of 
the City Hall, in the City of New York, agreed to form 
themselves into a society, the principal design of which, 
should be to collect and preserve whatever may relate to 
the Natural, Civil, or Ecclesiastical History of the United 
States, in general, 'and of this State, in particular; and 
appointed Mr. Benson, Dr. Miller, and Mr. Pintard, a 
committee to prepare and report a draft of a constitution." 
At a subsequent meeting, a constitution for the " New York 
Historical Society," was proposed, and adopted, and the 
Institution formally organized. Two of its projectors, (the 
4* 



42 AN ADDRESS. 

Rev. Dr. Miller, and our late President, Mr. Stuyvesant,) 
yet survive ; and it was but a few weeks ago, that we were 
called upon to pay a last tribute of respect to the venerable 
PiNTARD — that " perfect chronicle of the olden time," — as 
one of our honored members, who assisted to bear his pall, 
most felicitously described the early, zealous, and constant 
friend of our Institution, 

The motives which led to the foundation of the Society — 
whose fortieth anniversary we now celebrate — were such 
as address themselves, at once, to the best and noblest feel 
ings of our nature. These motives were patriotism and 
philanthropy — a sense of " what is due to ourselves, to the 
memory of our predecessors, and to the respect of pos- 
terity ;" and we have the proud satisfaction of knowing that 
the approval and liberal patronage of our fellow citizens, 
has followed the efforts of the Society. From a small be- 
ginning, has resulted a noble institution, whose beneficial 
influence has already been felt, and will continue to be felt, 
with increasing effect, as our State grows in years and 
empire. 

Our objects are in progress of successful accomplishment. 
'Many va,luable manscripts, relating to our history, in the 
possession of those who, perhaps unwilling to trust them 
to private hands, cheerfully confided them to the custody 
of a Society, incorporated by our Legislature, and recognised 
as a State Institution, have been rescued from the dust and 
obscurity of private repositories, and are preserved on our 
shelves for the benefit of our fellow citizens. Our noble 
Library, one of the richest perhaps, in the country, in works 
of an historical character, is a monument of the munifi- 
cence of the State, and of the liberality of individuals. 
The State Historical Agency, the results of which we have 
just been noticing, is, emphatically, the offspring of this 
Society. The prescient mind of Clinton, then our Vice 
President, suggested, as long ago as 1814, the importance 
of an investigation of European archives, for the purpose 
of procuring those rfiaterials for history, which our own 
State Records could not furnish ; and happy in one respect, 



AN ADDRESS. 43 

at least, would it have been, if the enterprise, just now 
completed, could then have been carried into execution. 
The papers of the West India Company were then in exis- 
tence ; and might, perhaps, have now^ been in our possession. 
But the circumstances of the Society were such for some 
years, as to prevent any direct effort being made to obtain 
the favorable consideration of the Legislature in regard 
to this subject ; and it was not until the month of April, 
1838, that a memorial was prepared by the Society, and pre- 
sented to our State Government, praying the State to un- 
dertake for the public benefit, an enterprise, which the So- 
ciety, of their own means, were unable to effect. The 
importance of the object was appreciated by the members 
of an enlightened Legislature; and at the session of 1839, 
an act was passed, with great unanimity, authorizing the 
appointment of an Agent " to visit England, Holland, and 
France, for the purpose of procuring, if possible, the origi- 
nals, and if not, copies, of all such documents and papers 
in the Archives and offices those Governments, relating to, 
or in any way effecting the Colonial or other History of this 
State, as he may deem important to illustrate that History," 
and directing that the documents, when procured, be de- 
posited in the office of the Secretary of State, subject to 
the use of the State Historical Society. 

Another important result of the influence and exertions 
of the Society, is the publication, by the State, of a series 
of valuable records, including the Journals of the New 
York Provincial Congress and Convention, together with 
the proceedings of the Committee of Safety, from May, 
1775, to the adoption of the State Constitution, and the 
close of the Northern Campaign in 1777 ; which had for a 
long time remained almost inaccessible, in our State 
Archives. 

In the short history of our existence as a Society, we 
find much cause of congratulation and abundant encour- 
agement for future exertion. We have done much ; but 
there is much before us yet to accomplish. 

Happily founded in the Metropolis of our Country, our 



44 AN ADDRESS. 

influence should be as extended as the limits of our land. 
In this view, the recent provision incorporated into our Con- 
stitution, respecting the election of Corresponding Members, 
in the various Counties of the State, &c., is regarded as of 
great importance. The older Counties, Albany, Ulster, 
Dutchess, and others, possess, in their Clerk's offices, abun- 
dant materials for the illustration of their local History ; and 
indeed, there is scarcely a village within our territory, that 
may not contribute something toward the stock of materials 
from which the history of our State is to be compiled. This 
is a point of great importance — one in which every intel- 
ligent inhabitant of the State may well feel an interest. 
Individuals of liberal feelings and education, in the various 
towns and villages of our State, in correspondence with our 
Society, will be able to eftect much. They may, and we 
hope will, become valuable contributors to our Institution. 
Besides exploring and bringing to day the information 
buried in their local Archives, (and this may very easily be 
done by public-spirited members, resident in our county 
towns,) they may procure the deposit of family papers, of 
rare books and pamphlets, in short, of a mass of material, 
whose permanent preservation and general usefulness would 
be guarantied by its being in the possession of this Society ; 
and they may, in the words of our Committee, " collect, 
with great ease, local reminiscences, only existing, perhaps, 
at present, in the memories of aged persons, whose places 
will soon be vacant, local statistics, and topographical des- 
criptions, and minutise of counties, cities, towns, and villages, 
which, however trifling they may appear, will materially 
assist the future Historian of New York." 

Another subject of general importance, will, no doubt, 
receive the attention of the Society. The Archives of our 
State, in the Office of the Secretary, at Albany, though of 
inestimable value, it is to be regretted, are not in a condi- 
tion to be as generally useful as they ought to be. The 
existing Colonial Records are only partially arranged in 
volumes ; while a vast mass of papers yet continues, as it 
has lain for years, tied up in bundles, and without order. 






AN ADDRESS. 45 

To render our State Historical Records of the greatest 
utility, they should be carefully and properly arranged ; 
bound up into volumes, catalogued, and the catalogue 
printed. This is the plan adopted in reference to the Docu- 
ments of the Agency. A catalogue, in which every paper, 
with its date, and a reference to its contents, and to its page 
in the volume, will be accurately indicated, is now in course 
of preparation ; and will be submitted to the proper au- 
thority, as an appendix to the final Report of the Agent. 
By means of this catalogue, every paper in the collection 
can be, at once, designated and found. 

Until such a measure is adopted in reference to our ex- 
isting Colonial Archives, the public can never know what 
we have, or the value of our Records ; and it is not to be 
doubted that the influence of the Society will again be 
efficiently exerted in favor of a measure which must, we 
trust, commend itself to the good will and approbation of 
the Legislature. 

Such, Gentlemen, are our objects, and such are some of 
the results that have followed our exertions. And, it would, 
indeed, seem almost superfluous to address, to this audience, 
any remarks to enforce the propriety of collecting and pre- 
serving, with pious care, every memorial tending to illustrate 
our history, every Document " that may illuminate the 
obscure, explain the doubtful, and embalm the memories of 
the good and great." Yet, enlightened and universal as has 
been the approbation that has sustained our exertions, and 
cheered our progress, there may, possibly, be some among 
our citizens, disposed to weigh Dollars against Documents, 
and utter a cold and calculating Cui-hono ? — Why this 
ransacking of old cupboards for dusty documents ? Why this 
tender care of old, worm-eaten papers ? Why this resusci- 
tation of " rubbish" ? 

To such — if such there be — we hold but one language — 
we make but one reply. Because we love our country. 

And why do we love our country ? It is, because we live 
in it — are part and parcel of it — rise or fall with it — are 
great, or are unimportant, as our own land is great, or is of 



46 AN ADDRESS. 

little esteem. Whatever, therefore, tends to elevate that 
country in our estimation, and in that of the world, tends to 
strengthen Patriotism. And what more effectually tends 
to this, than the possession of a perfect body of annals ? 
Pride of a virtuous ancestry, in individuals, if not inordi- 
nate, is a noble feeling. In our own Republic, freed from 
all selfish considerations, and shorn of all false and extrin- 
sic influence, it becomes a talisman which often pre- 
serves its possessor from yielding to a temptation to sully 
an unspotted name ; and is often an incentive to a generous 
emulation of the deeds of a forefather. The annals of a 
State are but the records of its aggregate families. The 
more rich, the more full, the more illustrious these annals, 
the stronger and more binding will be the ties that connect 
the citizen with his State. Every old Document rescued, 
every memorial preserved, every scrap added to our Records, 
is an additional link in the chain that binds us to our 
country. 

These sentiments are not new or original with us. Europe 
has long ago, in effect, adopted them ; and the jealous care 
with which the archives of the Monarchies of the old world 
are now preserved, is an example which the Republics of 
the new, may well and safely follow. 

A late British Historian,* in an elaborate work on the 
French Revolution, speaking of our country, took occasion 
to say " So wholly regardless are they of Historical Records, 
or monuments, that half a century hence, its History, even of 
these times, could only be written from the Archives of other 
StatesJ* This contemptuous sneer at our lukewarm Patriot- 
ism, has already, in part, been nobly answered by the 
enlightened statesmanship of our modern Legislatures. 
Be it our proud duty to rescue ourselves, entirely, from such 
a stigma, and vindicate, before the world, the self-respect of 
our State. Let us show to the nations of the earth, that 
though in her days of youth and feebleness, when struggling 
for existence, the Republic may, have postponed, to a " more 

* Allison. 



AN ADDRESS. 47 

convenient season," the performance of a solemn obligation, 
she has not, in her time of power and greatness, been 
unfaithful to her honor, or indifferent to her fame. 

Youth is, proverbially, a season of thoughtlessness. The 
child, careless, and indifferent to the future, often destroys 
without reflection, what he in vain desires to replace in 
after years. To youth, antiquity has, generally, but little 
charm. The time-honored church where his fathers wor- 
shipped, has no sacredness in his eyes. The old-fashioned 
building must give place to the newest model. The ven- 
erable is ridiculous. Change — innovation — destruction — 
are rapidly effected. By and by, in after life, he begins to 
calm. He regrets the past. Memory takes him back to 
early scenes. He loves to dwell upon the recollections of 
his childhood ; and now, he would, in vain, recall all that 
he has heedlessly obliterated — all that it is too late to 
recover. 

As with individuals, so with States. In the infancy of 
political existence, communities ever think of the present ; 
seldom of the future ; more seldom, yet, of the past. The 
wants of a young State are pressing ; and the present has 
claims which are always urgent, and which always fill the 
eye. If a present convenience should seem to require it, 
little heed is taken what destruction is effected. There is no 
time to think of posterity. 

But as the State advances in years, she begins to look to 
futurity. She builds for all time. Need you examples ? 
Let me point you to our noble artificial river, which unites 
us to the Mediterranean seas of this broad continent, and 
bears to our doors the productions of the teeming West. 
And is that a work to benefit the present age alone ? And 
can their memories ever fade, whose capacious minds 
" grasped, in advance, the sum of its infinite benefits ?" And 
look nearer home, at that magnificent Aqueduct, that sends 
the sparkling waters gushing through our streets, bringing 
life and health to our population. And will not those who 
follow us to our graves, and their own mourners after them. 



48 AN ADDRESS. 

not thank the men of this age, for what they have done ? 
The stern and majestic ruins that frown over the deso- 
late Campagna, are not more impressive monuments to the 
Emperor Claudius, than will the Acqueduct of New York 
be an enduring memorial of the far-reaching philanthropy 
of those who projected, and advocated, and completed our 
own noble work. 

And these are the results of the calmer, more comprehensive 
policy of the maturer age of the State. And as years still 
roll on, the elements of social improvement assume forms 
of greater moral sublimity. The growing grandeur of our 
State elevates our characters as individuals, and we believe 
that " whatever causes the past, the distant, or the future 
to predominate over the present, exalts us in the scale of 
thinking beings."* And we have not yet to learn the les- 
son, that the richer a State becomes in historical associa- 
tions and mementos, the higher spirit of patriotic pride 
does it excite in its inhabitants, and the stronger hold does 
it take upon their affections. 

Let us then, one and all, join, heart and hand, in the 
noble duty of enriching the historical treasury of our State. 
There is scarcely one of our citizens, throughout its wide 
extent, who may not contribute his mite. Let those whose 
pursuits forbid active antiquarian research, give their coun- 
tenance to the laborer in the field ; and contribute, of their 
substance, to support our Institution, and extend its in- 
fluence. Let us seek out, and cherish, and preserve, every 
record of the past. Let us garner up the fragments that 
tell us of our forefathers' habits — the memorials of the days 
of old ; and let us not rest from our labors, till every reposi- 
tory has been ransacked — every document procured — every 
fleeting reminiscence collected — every gap in our annals 
filled — every deed of glory recorded — every virtuous name 
immortalized. And let there be no delay ! Time and accident 
are daily doing their work upon those decaying memorials, 
which, like the leaves of the Sybil, only increase in value, 



• Dr. Johngon. 



AN ADDRESS. 49 

as they grow scarce and rare. Let our museums be en- 
riched with the antiquities of our country. Let the mounds 
of the red man become more sacred in our eyes ; and the 
names he gave our lakes, our rivers, our land, sweet and 
pleasant in our ears. Let us learn to look, with affectionate 
veneration, on the old-fashioned church. Let us love to 
trace our predecessors' 

" Footsteps on the sands of time." 

Thus shall we all assist in a great and patriotic work — 
in the performance of a duty, which, as good citizens 
— as patriots — is among the most sacred and imperative we 
owe — to secure the deep and solid foundations of our early 
history, upon which its after superstructure is to rest. That 
superstructure, like the Pantheon at Rome, will stand 

" Simple, erect, severe, austere, sublime." 

The bright atmosphere of Truth will irradiate its bold and 
noble proportions, encumbered by no meretricious orna- 
ment — heightened by no illusion of fiction. 

We do not desire, nor are we permitted, " like the nations 
of Ancient Europe, to deduce our lineage from super-human 
beings, or to clothe the sage and heroic spirits who laid the 
foundations of our Empire, with the exaggerations and lustre 
of poetical invention." " Our origin is within the limits of 
well-attested History."* The discovery of America was 
nearly cotemporary with the invention of Printing. The 
exploration of the Hudson, and the settlement of New 
Netherland, happened when the Presses of Europe had 
already perpetuated the learning of the Old World. In the 
words of one of our own most brilliant writers,! " The spirit of 
the age was present, when the foundations of New York 
were laid." 

And what, though we may have no " College of Arms" to 
emblazon family honors ? If the names of our good and 
our great, are not " recorded in the Registers of Heralds." 

* Kent. t Bancroft. 



50 AN ADDRESS. 

we feel assured they will be engraven on the hearts of their 
countrymen. What, though we may have no crumbling 
ruins of aristocratic magnificence — no ivy-covered towers of 
ancient days — no Baronial Halls, even in their dilapidation, 
attesting the taste as Avell as the pride of feudal times — we 
will have — what no other nation has — written annals, 
mounting up to the very earliest period of our existence — 
fruitful in " recitals of heroic actions, and in images of res- 
plendent virtue." What, though we may have no museums, 
rich m the gorgeous trappings of chivalry — we will have the 
prouder memorials of the Fathers of the Republic. 

There is, perhaps, no State in this great confederation, 
whose early history is fraught with themes of more varied 
character, exciting interest, romantic incident, or instructive 
lesson. That History, when it shall come, in after days, 
to be fully written, will exhibit, not, perhaps, the grandeur 
and obscurity which overshadoAV the early periods of the 
existence of the nations of the old Avorld ; not the romance, 
and legendary tales of chivalry, which crowd the annals of 
Europe. It will tell us the story of early adventure, and 
hardy effort, and the arduous circumstances that attended 
the " cradling" of our State. We will read of revolution 
succeeding revolution, and conquest folloAving conquest — 
the jurisprudence of one country, substituted for the laws of 
another — the Pandects of Justinian giving way to the Insti- 
tutes of Coke. As we turn over its pages, we will mark 
the progress of free sentiment ; we will admire and venerate 
the characters of those whose Patriotism secured the liber- 
ties of the People, and transmitted to posterity the rights and 
privileges we now enjoy. It will exhibit New York as the 
Pivot Province, on which, from its central position, turned 
most of the important movements and events which led to 
our Revolutionary struggle. It will show us our State as 
one vast battle-ground, for about one hundred and seventy 
years: exposed, with but little intermission, to the ravages 
of an enemy, and producing, all the while, men equal to the 
emergency. It will picture " our soil consecrated by the 



AN ADDRESS. 61 

blood of heroes, and by great and holy deeds of peace." It 
will sing — 

" another golden age. 



" The rise of Empire, and of arts, 

" The good and great, inspiring Epic rage — 

" The wisest heads, and noblest hearts."* 

And thus, in the progress of years— when a becoming venera- 
tion of the memorials of their fathers, growing with the 
growth of their State, and strengthening with the increase 
of her power, shall prompt our people to guard, with 
jealous care, every vestige of the past ; when time shall 
have rounded the sharply-chiselled angles of our buildings, 
and antiquity shall have hallowed the structures which tell 
of the habits of their founders, or immortalize their names 
as the benefactors of their kind — shall the future inhabitant 
of this State, look with gratitude to the annals of her early 
days, and point, with exultation, to the records of her pro- 
gress; and as his emulation kindles, and his patriotism 
burns, the proud feelings of the Roman will rise in his breast, 
as he exclaims, I, too, am a Citizen op New York ! 



* Berkeley. 



NOTES 



NOTE A. PAGE 16, ANTE. 

The States General of the United Netherlands, to all to whom these 
presents shall come, make known ; Whereas, Gerrit Jacobsen Witsen, formerly 
Burgomaster of the City of Amsterdam, Jonas Witsen, and Simon Monisen, 
owners of the ship named the Fox, whose Captain is John De With ; Hans 
Mongers, Paulus Pelgrom, and Lambrecht Van Tweenhuysen, owners of the two 
ships named the Tiger and the Fortune, whose Captains are Adriaen Block and 
Hendrick Corstiansen ; Arnold Van Leybergen, Wessel Schenck, Hans Claessen, 
and Barent Sweertsen, owners of the ship named the Nightengale, whose Cap- 
tain is Thys Volkertsen, merchants of the aforesaid City of Amsterdam ; and 
Peter Clementsen Brower, Jan Clementsen Kies, and Cornells Volkertsen, mer- 
chants of the City of Hoorn, owners of the ship named the Fortune, whose Cap- 
tain is Cornells Jacobsen May, — all now united together in one Company, — have 
reverently represented to us, that they, the memorialists, at heavy expense and 
great damage to themselves, from the loss of ships and other great risks, have, 
this present current year, with the aforesaid five ships, discovered and found cer- 
tain new lands lying in America, between New France and Virginia, being the 
sea-coasts thereof, situated in the latitude of from 40 to 45 degrees, nov/ named 
New Netherland, and praying, [that whereas we, in the month of March last, 
for the encouragement and increasing of Commerce, had published a certain 
general ordinance and grant to the effect that all those who from that time forward 
should discover any new passages, havens, lands, or places, should have the exclu- 
sive right of maldng four voyages thither, and that no other persons, directly or 
indirectly, should sail from the United Netherlands, to the said newly discovered 
passages, havens, lands or places, or frequent the same, until the first discoverer 
had himself made the four voyages within the time limited therefor, under 
penalty of the forfeitures in the aforesaid ordinance expressed, &c. &c.,] that 
we should grant them a proper act to be passed in form, and in pursuance ot 
the said ordinance; Which being considered, and having heard, in our meet- 
ing, the pertinent report of the memorialists, concerning the discovery of 
the aforesaid new lands, within the aforesaid limits and latitudes, and of 
their adventures ; we have authorized and allowed the said memorialists, (at 
present united together in one Company,) and do hereby authorize and allow 
the same, exclusively, to navigate to the said newly discovered lands lying in 
5* 



54 NOTES. 

America, between New France and Virginia, the coast of which is situated in the 
latitude of from 40 to 45 degrees, now called New Netherland, [as is to be 
seen by the "figurative" map hereto annexed,*] for four voyages within the period 
of three years, commencing the first day of January, 1615, next ensuing, or soon- 
er ; without that any other persons, directly or indirectly, shall be at liberty, out of 
these United Netherlands, to sail to, navigate to, or frequent the said newly dis- 
covered lands, havens, or places, within the said period of three years, under pain 
of confiscation of the ships and cargoes wherewith the same shall be attempted, 
contrary to this decree, and of a fine of 50,000 Netherland ducats, to the benefit 
of the aforesaid discoverers, &c. : Provided, nevertheless, that we are not to be 
understood, by these presents, as doing any prejudice to, or in any way curtailing 
our former grants and concessions ; and that our meaning fiirther is, that in case 
any disagreements or differences should happen to arise or grow out of this our 
grant, that the same shall be decided by ourselves. Ordering and Commanding, 
for this purpose, most expressly, all Governors, Justices, Officers, Magistrates and 
Inhabitants of the aforesaid United Lands, to let the aforesaid Company, quietly 
and peaceably, use and enjoy the full effect of this our grant and concession, re- 
fraining from all opposition and hindrance to the contrary ; inasmuch as we con- 
sider the same to be for the ser\'ice and benefit of the country. Given under our 
seal, and the attestation of our Clerk, at the Hague, the 11th day of October, 1614. 

[Translated from the original, in the " Holland Documents" in the Secretary's office, Al- 
bany, volume 1, page 47.1 



NOTE B.— PAGE 20, ANTE. 
lathFEBRUAKY, 1620. 

To THE Prince of Orange, &c. 
Respectfully make known the Directors of the Company trading to New 
Netherland, situated between New France and Virgmia, in the latitude of from 
40 to 45 degrees, that they, the memorialists, by virtue of a certain general grant 
of the High Mighty Lords the States General, dated the 10th (27) March, 1614, 
as the discoverers and first finders of the said lands, have now made voyages 
thither for some years, and have also delivered to their High Mightinesses their 
written Report, with a map of the situation and usefulness of the said lands. 
And as the memorialists' grant has expired, so that, now, any one is free to trade 
there, they have, for the purpose of keeping the said trade in reputation, hitherto 
Bent two ships thither, and some ships have also been sent by other merchants, not 
belonging to their Company. It now happens, that there is residing at Leyden a 
certain English Preacher, (Minister of the Gospel,) but who is well versed in the 
Dutch language, and who is inclined to go there to live ; assuring your memori- 
iflta that he knows that (the means how) over four hundred (400) families would 



* A fac-siraile of this map is in the office of the Secretary of State, at Albany . 



NOTES. 55 

go with him there, as well from this country, as' from England, provided that 
by the authority, and under the protection of Your Princely Excellency, and the 
High Mighty Lords the States General, they may be defended and preserved from 
the attacks of other Powers ; for the purpose of planting there the true and pure 
Christian Religion, and of converting the savages of those countries to the true 
knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith ; and also, through the grace 
of the Lord, and to the glory of the Government of this country, to Colonize and 
establish a New Empire there, under the order and command of Your Princely 
Excellency, and the High Mighty Lords States General. And your memorial- 
ists have also found by experience, that His Majesty of Great Britain is disposed 
to Colonize the aforesaid lands with English subjects, and with violence to Inake 
fruitless your memorialists' discoveries and possession, and also to deprive the 
Government of this country of their rights ; and probably the ships of this coun- 
try which are now there, and which are ordered to remain there for the whole of 
this year, may be easily surprised by the English. Your memorialists therefore 
request and pray, that 'your Princely Excellency would be graciously pleased to 
take the foregoing matters into your favorable consideration, so that, for the preser- 
vation of the rights of this country, the aforementioned preacher and 400 fami- 
lies may be taken under the protection of this country, and that, provisionally, 
two ships of war may be sent to secure the aforesaid lands to this Government, 
since the said lands may be of great importance, whenever the West India Com- 
pany shall be erected, having regard to the great quantity of wood proper for ship 
building, as well as other purposes, as is to be seen by the accompanying Report. 
Upon all which, &c. &c. 

(■Translated from t^ original, in the " Holland Documents" in the Secretary's Office, 
Albany, volume 1, page 95.] 



AN 



ACCOUNT OF THE CELEBRATION 



THE NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 



FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY, WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20th, 



1844. 



I 



AN ACCOUNT, ftc. 



In pursuance of a resolution passed by the New York 
Historical Society, at the stated Meeting, in October, 1844, 
arrangements were made for the celebration of their For- 
tieth Anniversary, on the 20th day of November, by the 
following gentlemen, comprising the Executive Committee. 

The Hon. ALBERT GALLATIN, LLD. 

William B. Lawrence, Prosper M. Wetmore, 

Thomas De Witt, D. D., Hon. Gulian C. Verplanck, 

Cyrus Mason, D. D., Edw. Robinson, D. D., 

Frederick De Peyster, Alex. W. Bradford, 

George Folso:m, John R. Bartlett, 

John Jay, Henry R. Schoolcraft, 

George Gibbs, Erastus C. Benedict, 

On Wednesday, the twentieth of November, at five o'clock 
in the afternoon, the Society met at the Historical Rooms, 
in the University of the City of New York, when the Chair 
was taken by the President, the Honorable Albert Gallatin, 
supported by the Vice Presidents Lawrence and De Witt. 

General Wetmore, the Chairman of the Executive Com- 
mittee, introduced to the President and the Society, the 
distinguished guests who were present by special invitation 
among whom were the Honorable John Quincy Adams ; 
General Almonte, the Mexican Minister; the Honorable 



60 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OP THE 

Theodore Frelinghuysen ; Colonel Bankhead, U. S. A. ; Rev. 
Dr. Bethune, and Delegations from the following Scientific 
and Learned Societies. The Hon. Leverett Saltonstall, Rev. 
Dr. Codman, Rev. George E. Ellis, and the Rev. Alexander 
Young, representing the Massachusetts Historical Society ; 
the Hon. Thomas Day, and others, representing the Connec- 
ticut Historical Society ; General Tallmadge, representing 
the American Institute ; Hon. William B. Reed, from the 
Pennsylvania Historical Society ; Mr. Samuel M. Burnside 
and others, representing the American Antiquarian Society. 
Letters were received from the American Philosophical 
Society, the Maryland Historical Society, the New York 
Lyceum of Natural History, and the Historical Societies of 
Maine, Rhode Island, and Georgia, the latter of which had 
appointed John Jay, Esq., of New York, to represent it on 
the occasion. 

A report from the Executive Committee, was presented 
upon the nominations referred to them, and the gentlemen 
named therein, having been duly elected, and new nomina- 
tions having been offered. 

The Society adjourned to the Church of the Messiah, in 
Broadway, where, after a prayer by the Rev. Dr. De Witt, 
the Oration was delivered by John Romeyn Brodhead, Esq., 
the Historical Agent of the State of New York, to Holland, 
England, and France. On the conclusion of the Oration, 
which was received with loud applause, the benediction was 
pronounced by the Rev. Dr. Milnor, and the Society and their 
guests proceeded to the New York Hotel, and were received 
in the Drawing Rooms, by the following gentlemen compos- 
ing the 

COMMITTEE OF RECEPTION. 

Cyrus Mason, D. D., George Folsom, 

David C. Colden, Archibald Russell, 

J. W. Beekman, Townsend Harris, 

Frederick De Peyster, Charles F. Hoffman, 

Henry E. Davies, John Jay. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 

STEWARDS. 



61 



Prosper M. Wetmore, Erastus C. Benedict, 

Benj'n. R. Winthrop, Alex. W. Bradford, 

John R. Bartlett, ■ John T. Van Alen, 

George Gibbs, John Bigelow, 

Henry G. Stebbins, Abraham M. Cozzens. 

At eight o'clock, the company, to the number of two 
hundred and fifty, preceded by the officers and guests, en- 
tered the large saloon, and sat down to dinner, the Hon. Mr. 
Gallatin presiding, supported by Mr. William B. Lawrence, 
Hon. Luther Bradish, Hon. B. F. Butler, Chief Justice Jones, 
and Hon. Philip Hone, as Vice Presidents. Before the con- 
clusion of the dinner, Mr. Gallatin left the Chair, which 
was taken by Mr. Lawrence, and after the Rev. Dr. De 
Witt had returned thanks, Mr. Lawrence rose and said, 

Gentlemen — Those to whom the preparation of this repast has 
been confided, have omitted one of the duties usually deemed in- 
cumbent on such occasions. Aware that they were acting for a 
Literary Association, and that the responses of the honored indi- 
viduals whom they had addressed, promised the attendance of gen- 
tlemen eminent for historic research, and distinguished as statesmen 
and scholars, they supposed that they might well leave to the com- 
pany themselves, the selection of the topics, on which to interchange 
friendly salutations. I am, therefore, charged with no formal 
toasts. There is, however, one sentiment, which, on this occasion, 
cannot be omitted, and which I am instructed, as the organ of the 
Society, to present. 

Gentlemen — This Anniversary recalls to us those who, forty 
years ago, conceived the project of an Association, for preserving 
whatever might tend to illustrate the history of our State and 
Country, and whose incipient proceedings have, this day, been 
sketched for you in that instructive and eloquent address, to which 
we have all listened with so much gratification. 

Gentlemen — It has been remarked by more than one Historian, 
that our national origin differs from that of all the people of antiquity, 
in that we do not look for the founders of our Empire in the fables 
6 



62 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

of Gods and Goddesses. But though we cannot claim for them any 
supernatural origin ; though they were not miraculously nurtured, 
like the founders of the great Roman Commonwealth, yet no people 
can refer to ancestors of whom they have more just reason to be 
proud. What is true of our national forefathers, is emphatically so 
of the founders of this Society. 

Of the eleven individuals who first met to form this Association, 
only two survive — the distinguished Divine, who first projected a plan 
of a History worthy of our State, and whose absence is excused in a 
letter breathing the same spirit with which he was actuated near 
half a century since, and one of our late Presidents, whose name is 
itself an historical reference to our Dutch origin, and to the virtues 
of the worthiest and most distinguished of the Governors of New 
Netherlands. 

But, Gentlemen, if we recur either to the list at the first meeting, 
or of those who attended at the organization of the Society or of its 
earliest officers, there is not an individual of whom we may not 
properly boast — eloquent Divines, distinguished Scholars, eminent 
Professors of the Healing A.rt, learned Jurists, illustrious Statesmen. 

But, Gentlemen, in the brief moments to which these remarks 
are necessarily confined, how can I allude, in appropriate terms, to 
a Mason and a Hobart, the great Controversialists of their day — 
the idols of their respective religious communities — to the unobtru- 
sive merits of a Harris and a Ktjnze, the latter of whom has left 
in the valuable collection of medals that constitute our cabinet, a 
permanent memorial of historical zeal. 

Much less can I do justice- to our first President — the venerable 
Benson, whose right to preside over a Society of Knickerbockers 
no one can question. We find recorded as the first Vice Presidents, 
Benjamin Moore, the respected Prelate of the branch of the Protest- 
ant Church to which he was attached, and Brockholst Livingston, 
a distinguished member of a family, of whom none were more illus- 
trious in the annals of New York — a Jurist, who terminated his 
career as the associate of Marshall and Story. Among our 
founders also were the illustrious Statesmen and public benefactors, 
RuFus King, De Witt Clinton, and Daniel D. Tompkins — them- 
selves historical names of no ordinary lustre. I had intended to have 
alluded to one, so long identified with us — the patron of every thing 
connected with the Fine Arts, the Literature, or Science of our 
Metropolis, David Hosack, as well as to have considered how far 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 



63 



we have shown ourselves worthy of those who projected our Asso- 
ciation, and to have referred to that enterprise, the successful result 
of which has this day been so happily portrayed ; but I am warned 
by the impatience naturally manifested by you all to indulge in the 
rich intellectual banquet, which I know to be in readiness for you 
on the part of our honored guests. I therefore conclude, and give 
you, in the name of our Association — 

" The 20th of November, 1804— The Birth-day of the New York 
Historical Society." 

Mr. Wetmore, Mr. Benedict, and Mr. Gibbs, submitted 
letters from the following gentlemen, in reply to the invita- 
tion of the Executive Committee, to attend the celebra- 
tion : — 



Rev. Samuel Miller, D.D., 
Peter G. Stuyvesant, Esq., 
Hon. Martin Van Buren, 
Hon. Chief Justice Taney, 
Hon. Mr. Justice Story, 
Ex-Gov. W. L. Marcy, 
Ex-Gov. Wm. H. Seward, 
Hon. Silas Wright, 
Hon. Millard Fillmore, 
Hon. George M. Dallas, 
William H. Prescott, Esq., 
Hon. Emory Washburn, 
Hon. John Davis, 
George Bancroft, Esq, 
Hon. R. H. Walworth, 
Rev. Charles W. Upham, 
Jared Sparks, Esq., 
Hon. John Pickering, 
Hon. Robert C. Winthrop, 
Commodore Jones, U. S. N., 
Valentine Mott, M. D., 

Hon. 



H, 



George Ord, Esq., 
Hon. James Savage, 
Hon. James Kent, 
Hon. Harmanus Bleecker, 
Rt. Rev. Manton Eastburn, 
Hon. H. G. Otis, 
Hon. Ambrose Spencer, 
Alonzo Potter, D.D., 
Hon. J. McPherson Berrien, 
Leonard Bacon, D.D., 
Hon. Josiah Quincy, 
Hon. George P. Marsh, 
J. Brodhead, D.D., 
Hon, Greene C. Bronson, 
Hon. Samuel Beardsley, 
Wm. Johnson, Esq., 
Hon. F. C. Gray, 
Orville Dewey, D.D., 
Josiah Quincy, Jr., Esq., 
Brantz Mayer, Esq., 
Peter Force, Esq., 
D. Gilpin. 



64 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

The following letters were then read. 

Princeton, Nov. 1, 1844. 

My Dear Sir : I feel much honored by the kind invitation to attend the For- 
tieth Anniversary of the New York Historical Society, on the 20th instant, which 
reached me two days ago. 

I have not forgotten the deep interest, which I took in the formation and the 
labors of your Society, as one of its original members ; nor the earnest desire 
which I have cherished, from a period still more remote, to contribute my mite 
toward the elucidation of the early history of our beloved country. 

When Mr. Brodhead went to Europe, as the Historical Agent of the State of 
New York, I took the liveliest interest in his mission, and looked forward to his 
return and to the result of his labors, with high anticipations, both of profit and 
pleasure ; and when I heard of his arrival, and of the ample store of historical 
records which he had brought with him, I felt an ardent desire to see him, and to 
listen to the report of his rich acquisitions. 

You may well suppose then, that few things could give me more pleasure, than 
to accept of your kind invitation, and to be present on an occasion so well adapted 
to instruct and gratify one, whose predilections and pursuits have ever been such 
as mine. 

It is, therefore, with unfeigned regret, that I feel myself constrained to decline 
being present on the occasion which I am invited to attend. But being now in the 
seventy-first year of my age, laboring under many of the infirmities which usually 
attend that time of life — my health having been extremely delicate, and repeatedly 
interrupted during the last twelve months, and the season of the year being one in 
which variable and trying weather is to be expected — I am afraid to leave home, 
and must deny myself the great pleasure, which a compliance with your request 
would afford me. 

Sincerely hoping that the contemplated meeting will prove auspicious, and 
eminently conducive to the best interests of the Society wliich you represent ; and 
begging that my most respectful and fraternal salutations may be presented to the 
honored members of your Committee and Society, 

I am, my dear Sir, most respectfully. 

Your obedient servant, 

SAMUEL MILLER. 

Erastus C. Benedict, Esq., Secretary. 



New York, Nov. 1st, 1844. 
Sir : I have the honor of acknowledging the compliment extended to me by 
yourself and the other members of the Executive Committee of the New York 
Historical Society, inviting me to attend the exercises contemplated by them to 
take place on the 20th instant, being the Fortieth Aimiversary of the Society. 
I accept, Sir, with great pleasure, the invitation. 

And with high respect, have the honor to be. Sir, 

Your obd't serv't, 

P. G. STUYVESANT. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 6$ 

r 

Cambridge, Nov. 9, 1844. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your invitation to attend 
the Fortieth Anniversary of the Historical Society of New York, on the 20th 
instant. It reached me only on this day. It would afford me the most sincere 
pleasure to be with you on such an occasion, so interesting, so instructive, and so 
highly to be appreciated. But my judicial and other engagements interpose an 
insuperable bar to the enjoyments of such an occasion. 

I look upon the efforts of your Society as of great importance to our common 
country, and, in connection with the other Societies of a lilie nature in other 
States, as destined to furnish an ample means for a trae and worthy history of the 
foundation and progress of the Colonies which so gloriously achieved the inde- 
pendence of the Republic. Mr. Burke beautifully expressed the true object of 
such Societies when he bestowed his high praise upon those antiquaries whose 
duty and whose pleasure it was to remember the forgotten. 

Yours, 

JOSEPH STORY. 



LiNDENWALD, Nov. 15, 1844. 
Gentlemen: I have delayed my acknowledgements for your polite invitation to 
attend the celebration of the Fortieth Anniversary of the New York Historical 
Society, in the hope of being able to enjoy that pleasure : I regret, however, to 
inform you that it will not be in my power to be with you. 

Be assured that no one tak^ more interest in the success of a Society which 
has already done so much good, and which, under its present direction, promises 
still greater utility. 

Your obedient servant, 

M. VAN BUREN. 



PHiLADELPfflA, Nov. 16th, 1844. 
Sir : The business in our Supreme Court has unexpectedly, and I must say 
provokingly, taken a direction which compels my constant attendance during the 
ensuing week. I am, therefore, obliged to forego the very great pleasure I had 
promised myself in being present at the Fortieth Anniversary of the New York 
Historical Society, on Wednesday next. I regret this the more, as I shall not 
only be debarred hearing the discourse of Mr. Brodhead, but precluded from an 
anticipated enjoyment in an intercourse, however short, with Mr. Gallatin. 
With great respect, I am. Sir, 

Your most ob't serv't, 

G. M. DALLAS. 



Boston, Nov. 18, 1844. 
Dear Sir : I regret very much my inability to join in your celebration to-mor- 
row ; the more so from my regard to the indefatigable and persevering agent of 
6* 



66 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

your State, whom you have selected as your orator. The ship in which he re- 
turned was more richly freighted with new materials for American History than 
any that ever crossed the Atlantic ; and as a member of your Society, I claim to 
share in the just expression of satisfaction, that so much has been accomplished 
towards illustrating the annals of a State, which, from its central position, con- 
nects directly with its own soil almost all that is of the deepest interest to the 
Union. [ cannot but hope that the fruits of Mr. Brodhead's most successful re- 
search will awaken general attention, and by exciting the emulation of other 
States, and of the country collectively, will not fail to stimulate inquiry, till we 
shall have among ourselves all that remains in European archives, commemora- 
ting the wisdom or the heroism of our fathers. 

Very truly yours, 

GEO. BANCROFT. 



BrFFALo, Nov. 13, 1844. 
Sm : I am honored by the receipt of your note, conveying an invitation from 
the Executive Committee of the New York Historical Society, to attend the 
celebration of the Fortieth Anniversary on the 20th instant, and regret extremely 
that my engagements are such as to deprive me of that pleasure. 

I feel a great desire to know the result of Mr. Brodhead's Mission to Europe, 
of which I have been induced to think most favorably from the publications of the 
press, and the fact that he is to address the Society, increases the desire which I 
have to be present. I trust, however, that his ad^ess will be published, and that 
I may have the pleasure of perusing it, if I cannot hear it. 

With my best wishes for the continued prosperity and success of your institution, 
and my grateful acknowledgements for this notice of its Executive Committee, 
I have the honor to be your fellow-citizen, 

MILLARD FILLMORE. 



Canton, Nov. 4, 1844. 
Gentlemen : I am honored by your invitation to attend the celebration of the 
Fortieth Anniversary of the New York Historical Society, on the 20th inst. 

I regret that engagements of a controlling character will render it impossible 
for me to visit the city at the time of your proposed celebration. Otherwise, the 
instruction I should anticipate from the discourse of Mr. Brodhead, and the oppor- 
tunity of being honored by a personal acquaintance with the members of the 
Society, would induce a ready acceptance of your kind invitation. 
With great respect, I am, gentlemen. 

Your obedient servant, 

SILAS WRIGHT. 



Boston. Nov. 1, 1844. 
Dear Sir ; I have the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of the mvitationto 
meet the members of the New York Historical Society, at the celebration of their 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 67 

Fortieth Anniversary, and assure you, it would give me great gratification to make 
one of the assembly, and to partake of the feast of reason, which the orator is to 
furnish and the more substantial repasts in the evening. But my engagements 
are such that it will not be possible. 

I pray you to present my acknowledgements to the Society. 
And believe me, with much respect, 

your obedient servant, 

W. H. PRESCOTT. 



Auburn. November 7th, 1844. 
Gentlemen: The Anniversary of the New York Historical Society would, 
under any circumstances, be attractive. The few and far between instructions I 
have received from the venerable head of your committee, constitute some of the 
most pleasing memories which revisit me. I have been accustomed to regard 
your Orator, Mr. J. Romeyn Brodhead, as one who was to interweave his own 
name with the fame of New York as her first historian. It would therefore be a 
rare pleasure to see him open before your respected Society, the literary treasures 
he has so carefiilly gathered in Europe. But my engagements will not permit so 
great an indulgence. 

Accept, gentlemen, my thanks for your kind remembrance, and believe me, 
very respectfully and sincerely, 

Your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD, 



Baltimore, Nov. 15. 1844. 
SiK : My absence from home and official engagements have prevented me from 
acknowledging sooner, the invitation of the New York Historical Society, to be 
present at the celebration of their Fortieth Anniversary, on the 20th of this month. 
It would give me much pleasure to be present upon an occasion of so much inter- 
est ; but the duties of my circuit compel me to remain in Baltimore during all 
this month, and put it out of my power to accept the invitation. I beg you to 
convey to the Society my thanks for the honor they have done me, 
I am, with great respect. 

Your obedient servant, 

R. B. TANEY. 



The lateness of the hour prevented the further reading of 
the correspondence. The Hon. Luther Bradish, late Lieu- 
tenant-Governor of the State of New York, rose and said : — 

Mr, President and Gentlemen, — In the unexpected absence of the 
venerable President of this Society, I rise, by request, to attempt 



68 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OP THE 

the performance of a duty, as agreeable, certainly, as it is difficult 
-—difficult to discharge in a manner befitting the occasion, and in 
terms worthy of its subject. I am, however, encouraged by the re- 
flection, that your own feelings will supply what I may fail to 
express. 

Along the current of Time, History now and then presents to us 
an individual in whose biography may be said to be written the 
history of his country. The presence of such an individual honors 
this occasion. So largely has that distinguished individual parti- 
cipated in the public affairs of his country, and so intimately identi- 
fied has he been with the current incidents and events of the day, 
for more than half a century past, that his life may truly be said 
to comprise so much of his country's history. He has passed a 
long life, amidst stirring events, and almost exclusively in the able 
and faithful discharge of high official duties. 

But the public services of tha,t life have scarcely been more dis- 
tinguished and useful than its teachings and example are instruc- 
tive and encouraging both to public and private virtue. Nothing 
can more fully illustrate the truthfulness of that beautiful Oriental- 
ism, "Truth is mighty and will prevail." For, remarkable, and 
brilliant, and useful as have been the life and career of this rare 
individual, yet no patriotism, however disinterested — no integrity, 
however pure and incorruptible — and no wisdom, however exalted 
and unerring, have been able wholly to exempt him from the too 
ordinary fate of the great and the good, who devote their lives to 
the service of their country. Falsehood has sometimes been found 
hardy enough to misrepresent the actions of his life, and uncharita- 
bleness sufficiently cold and malignant to pervert and impugn his 
motives. But he has lived on, and Time, that great corrector of 
error, and sure rewarder of true merit, has at length nobly vindi- 
cated the former, and approved the latter. As it has- rolled on, 
prejudice has yielded before the majestyof public virtue ; the bitter 
waters have subsided ; and Truth aShd Justice have at length 
asserted their empire. 

This venerable and faithful public servant — this truly great and 
good man — breaking through the mists of the momentary error and 
injustice of this our lower world, and rising toward that brightness 
and undisturbed serenity and rest, to which all his life has tended : 
he now, on the verge of two worlds, presents the rare and remark- 
able example of one, who already in his life-time enjoys,_in regard 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 69 

to himself, the impartial judgement of posterity, and the just awards 
of future History. 

But I detain you too long. I know that your impatient feelings 
have run before me, and have already suggested the name of the 
distinguished individual to whom, in these few and very imperfect 
remarks, I have alluded. I therefore, without detaining you 
farther, ask you to drink with me, and standing, to the health of 

John Quincy Adams — May the evening of his life be as tranquil 
and happy, as its dawn and meridian have been honorable and 
useful. 

Mr. Adams replied : — 

Mr. President and Gentlemen, — If I do not sink under the honor 
that has been conferred upon me by the observations of the gentle- 
man who has just closed his remarks, it is not because I do not feel 
the want of support. They are observations on which it becomes 
me to be silent. But if there is any part of those observations to 
which it will be excusable for me to make any reference on this 
occasion, it will be that part in which the gentleman has referred 
to circumstances in my life, not by any means peculiar to me, but 
belonging to the condition of all men, of every description and 
character: poets, orators, statesmen, warriors, all, all who have 
acquired the notice of the age in which they have lived. — 
And these are the effects I have suffered from the tongue of slan- 
der. With these brief observations on that point, (for I have 
seen enough in this assembly to convince me that brevity is con- 
sidered an essential requisite on this occasion.) I will say, that in 
relation to these circumstances 1 not only appeal to and regard the 
opinions of my compatji|)ts of this age, but I appeal to the great 
object and end of this Society, and of all other similar Societies 
throughout this country. That end and object is to collect great 
historical truths : and they are the instruments and agents — and it 
is their great honor and glory — they are the great instruments 
and agents of procuring the triumph of truth over slandex*. 
The gentleman here by my side has enumerated a number of 
gentlemen who were the original founders of this Institution. 
They all deserve their reward. And I beg leave here to introduce 
the name of a man who was indirectly the founder of this Society, 
and of all these Historical Societies, indirectly, throughout the 



70 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

country. He was a man of whom the country may be justly proud. 
I mean Jeremy Belknap, He was the founder of the Massa- 
chusetts Historical Society, and all similar Societies, He was 
the Pastor of a small Congregation in New Hampshire ; and he 
wrote the History of New Hampshire, a work that has no supe- 
rior for its truthfulness or general value ; and of whom and his 
History a distinguished French traveller* a man, conspicuous in 
his own age, though unfortunate in his aim — said : " he was the 
Author of the precious History of New Hampshire." He also 
wrote the first volumes of American Biography ; and was the author 
of a Collection of Hymns and Psalms, that is still used in many 
parts of Massachusetts, and which has improved the poetry and 
literature of those who use it. It is but a short time since, sir, that 
the Massachusetts Historical Society celebrated her 50th Anniver- 
sary. Since her advent, these Societies have sprung up in Connec- 
ticut and New York, and Maryland, and Kentucky, and Georgia, 
and other States. These are of immense importance to the citizens 
of those States wherein they are located ; and if any of you 
suffer under the shafts of calumny, rely on these Societies to pro- 
cure the triumphs of truth for your satisfaction in after times. 
I have not time here, Mr, President, to allude to the importance 
of Historical Societies, They must be regarded as the most useful 
Institutions upon earth. When we go back to the discovery of this 
country, by Columbus, and then come down to the present day and 
review the history of that period, it will be found to be a mere 
progression of the condition of man upon earth. I will request 
of you, gentlemen, to be excused from any further observations, and 
to be allowed to conclude with this sentiment : 

" American History — Of the Past, commenced with heroic enter- 
prise ; of the Present, progressing hand in hand with human im- 
provements ; of the Future, may it fulfil the prophecy of Berkeley : 
' Time's noblest offspring is the last.' " 

Hon. B. F. Butler, one of the Vice Presidents, then rose and 
said, that the very agreeable duty had been assigned to him of 
bringing to the notice of the company, their respected guests who 
represented, on this occasion, the State of Pennsylvania. 

The interesting and important events connected with the early 

* Brissot de Warville. 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 71 

history of that great Commonwealth, (said Mr. B.) are so numer- 
ous, that in venturing even partially to allude to them, it is some- 
what difficult to confine one's self within the limits appropriate to 
an occasion like the present. Her founder, and the principles on 
which he proceeded, are without a parallel in the history of States. 
She had the honor to receive, in the spring-time of his life, and to re- 
tain among her citizens until his death, that American, whose fame, 
in both hemispheres, is second only to that of the Father of his 
Country. It was in her chief City that he commenced and com- 
pleted those experiments which had won for him the brilliant eulo- 
gy, " Eripuit ccbIo fuhnen ;" those experiments which had led, in 
their further development, to the latest and most wonderful of our 
inventions. It was in Pennsylvania also that Geo. Washington first 
displayed, in the defence of Fort Necessity, and afterwards on the 
banks of the Monongahela, in the army of the ill-fated Braddock, 
those great and commanding qualities which marked him out, even 
at that early day, as the future Saviour of his Country. From the 
Capital of the same State, emanated that immortal Declaration, to 
which the illustrious father of the venerable Statesman who had just 
addressed them, so largely contributed ; and there, too, had been 
perfected that greatest achievement of political wisdom, the Federal 
Constitution. 

But not only was Pennsylvania thus highly honored by her con- 
nexion with great public events, but she had also equally strong 
claims to the notice of American History, in reference to the pro- 
gress of Science and the Inventive Arts. Robert Fulton was a 
native, and until the age of twenty-two a resident of Pennsylvania; 
and he there commenced that application of his powers to practical 
science, which ultimately brought into general use those means of 
intercommunication which are now so closely uniting the most dis- 
tant regions of the earth. The name and the services of Fulton 
are known in every quarter of the globe, and it were superfluous 
to dwell upon them here. My present object is rather to bring to 
your recollection the names and services of other Pennsylvanians, 
equally devoted to the same cause, but less fortunate and distin. 
guished — an office which not only commends itself to every just 
feeling, but which falls within the appropriate limits of an Histori- 
cal Society, and indeed is one of the noblest offices of History her- 
self. I therefore remind you of Thomas Godfrey, Inventor of the 
Quadrant, so useful in practical navigation, which the English 



72 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

claim, (but claim without warrant) and the world uses, under the 
name of Hadley's Quadrant. I remind you of John Fitch, who 
produced the model of a steamboat in 1784, and in 1788 exhibited 
her, in motion, on the waters of the Delaware. 1 remind you of 
Oliver Evans, who invented a steam- wagon in 1804, and who 
predicted, at that early day, that the time would come when people 
would pass in twelve hours from Philadelphia to New York, in 
steam carriages. The prediction has long since been realized, and 
more than realized : our guests from Philadelphia were brought 
here in five hours and a half! What further achievements of this 
sort will be accomplished on our Continent within the next forty 
years — what will then constitute the " TJliima ThuW^ of American 
intercommunication by means of Steam-cars and Steamboats, no one 
living can foretell. Mr. B said he must leave it to the members of 
the Society in 1884, to ascertain whether it was the Rocky Moun- 
tains or the Oregon ; and he concluded by offering the following 
sentiment : 

The memory of Thomas Godfrey, John Fitch, and Oliver 
Evans. — Pennsylvanians honorably identified with the history of 
Science, and the progress of Inventive Art and Social Improve- 
ment. Let History see to it that their names are not forgotten. 

Wm. B. Reed, Esq., of Philadelphia, responded : — 

I return my sincere thanks for the honor you have done me in 
honoring the memory of the distinguished men of my native State. 
These are times when a Pennsylvania man ought to be very cautious 
in exposing himself where merited compliments are in circulation, 
and very grateful if he happens to receive one. I appreciate the 
delicate kindness of your distinguished Vice President, (Mr. Butler) 
in referring to our days of manly industry and honorable skill. But 
there is unhappily another chapter of Pennsylvania History, to 
which I may as well manfully refer, for, I am sure, no one now-a- 
days meets a Pennsylvanian, at home or abroad, without thinking 
of it. I refer to that which records our failure and neglect to pay 
our honest debts. It is the subject of just reproach. It is the 
source of deep and fearful conscientious upbraiding. It is not, Mr. 
President, the sneer of ribald eloquence from abroad which wounds 
our hearts. The time has been when bright shafts from the same 
rich quiver have been shot across the Atlantic, and fallen harmless 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 73 

at our feet ; but then we were clothed in the bright armor of invul- 
nerable virtue and integrity, and defied the point which national 
antipathy turned against us. Now, alas! it is the sense of doing 
wrong which enfeebles our arm, and leaves us exposed to wounds 
from hands which once we scorned. There is not a breeze which 
comes aci'oss the ocean that is not freighted with the cries of widows 
and of orphans, complaining of the wrongs we have done them, and 
there is an echo here at home from sufferers amongst ourselves, that 
swells the bitter chorus of complaint which is sounding throughout 
the world at our neglect to do a simple duty. 

But I trust this chapter of history is not concluded ; that the new 
illegitimate confederacy of repudiating States is breaking ; that the 
day of shameful regret is passing by ; and, though I speak with no 
prophetic confidence, and assuredly with no peculiar means of 
knowledge, yet, as a hopeful man, I will not conceal my belief that 
before very long the dishonor of Pennsylvania will be among the 
things gone by for ever. Pennsylvania has seen darker hours than 
these. No longer ago than yesterday, I read a letter written in 
1781, by a citizen of Pennsylvania, in which he says : " The As- 
sembly has just adjourned, and there is not, I assure you, money 
enough in the Treasury to pay a draft for £10." And yet in eleven 
years, many of them years of war, and all of them of perplexity, 
in eleven years, thanks to the beneficence of National policy, and 
our own self sacrifice, a building was raised in Philadelphia, on 
the corner-stone of which was truly written the highest public 
boast, "Pennsylvania happily out of debt." 

And to no one, let me add, and hence my apology for introducing 
here matter apparently inappropriate — to no one was that genera- 
tion of men more indebted for sagacious forecast and strict advocacy 
of sound public economy, than to one who was a stranger amongst 
us, a young man, the Representative in the State Legislature of a 
frontier county, otir fellow-citizen then, your honored President 
now, Albert Gallatin, of Pennsylvania. It may not be known 
to others as it is to me, that Mr. Gallatin's Financial Reports, made 
in the Pennsylvania Assembly in February, 1791 and 1792, laid 
the foundations of his well-earned reputation. I am most happy 
of the occasion thus historically to allude to them. 

Permit me, Mr. President, to say one word, and but one, as to 
the associations which should bind New York and Pennsylvania 
together. They are curious, and far from uninteresting. Very 
7 



74 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

curious have been the changes which time has worked with us. 
Once, and not very long ago, we were the metropolis and you the 
country town. The idea of a Southern or Western trader coming 
to New York to buy his goods, was as preposterous as it now would 
be for one of your Indiamen to straggle into the Capes of the Dela- 
ware. In 1671, when George Fox travelled from Maryland to the 
Providence plantations, New York was a village of huts, not worth 
a visit, and Philadelphia was not at all. Within a century, as late 
as 1759, an intelligent Episcopal clergyman, of the nameof Burna- 
by, published a book of travels along our seaboard, and thus saga- 
ciously proclaimed his judgment on the distant future : " These 
colonies never can be united. They have too many sources of dis- 
cord. New York and Pennsylvania always must be rivals for the 
trade of New Jersey T^ Yet, within six years, a Continental Con- 
gress met here. In fifteen years common danger had especially 
united our two States. The streets of New York were filled with 
Pennsylvania volunteers coming to fight for you and for themselves, 
for the cause was a common one. The blood of Atlee, and Miles, 
and Hand, and Piper was freely shed at Flatbush and Gowanus. 
The last boat that crossed from Brooklyn Ferry on the night of the 
29th of August, 1776, was filled with Pennsylvania soldiers. It 
was a Philadelphia officer who sent defiance to an overpowering 
enemy at Fort Washington. There is not a spot from Chaderton's 
Hill to Harlaem Heights, that will not attest the gallantry of Penn- 
sylvania soldiers, fighting to rescue or to save New York. I hope, 
Mr. President, I may be pardoned for referring to these things. 
But there is rich comfort at this moment, when dishonor is weighing 
down my native State, in thinking and speaking of her days and 
deeds of unsullied renown. 

One other word and I have done. There is a thought which the 
companionship of this hour suggests, a Philadelphia recollection 
which the presence of your venerable guest (Mr. Adams) brings 
proudly to my mind. It was in Philadelphia, whilst walking in 
the State House Yard, in a moment of dark perplexity, that John 
Adams first suggested the name of George Washington as the Com- 
mander-in-Chief of the Army of the Revolution. And never, in 
additional honor to his name, let it be forgotten, that it was John 
Adams who made John Marshall Chief Justice of the United States. 
In conclusion, Mr. President, let me offer as a toast : 
" The History of the good old times and its conservative influence. 
It will keep us one nation when every other link is broken." 



NEW YOEK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 75 

Philip Hone, Esq., thenrose and said — 

History is a debt paid to our forefathers, to be reimbursed by our 
posterity. Individuals in all ages have assumed the task of paying 
this debt by instalments; but the duty of collecting the means, of 
providing materials for the historian, is more effectually performed 
by national and local institutions, where each member contributes 
his quota to the general mass of antiquarian riches, or contempora- 
neous information. Of this nature is the institution whose fortieth 
anniversary we are met to celebrate, and such are the objects of 
her younger sister, the " American Antiquarian Society of Massa- 
chusetts." It has honored us on the present occasion by sending a 
delegation to unite in our festivities, and it is made my pleasing 
duty to extend to them the right hand of welcome and fraternity. 

This Society was incorporated by the Legislature of Massachu- 
setts, on the 24th of October, 1812, and has been ever since in suc- 
cessful operation. Its founder was Isaiah Thomas, one of those 
enterprising and public spirited men whose names adorn the pages 
of New England history. He was the first President, to which 
office he was annually elected until his death, which occurred in 
1831, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. The edifice now 
occupied by the Socifty at Worcester, was erected at his private 
expense, and its library and cabinet are rich in his munificent 
benefactions. Nor should our Institution withhold its gratitude 
for a liberal bequest received from him, nor fail to do honor to his 
memory. 

Isaiah Thomas was born in Boston, January 19th, 1749. Born 
a printer it might be said, for we are told he worked at his trade 
and was even a compositor at six years of age. " The Massachu- 
setts Spy," was established by this youthful apostle of liberty in 
1771, and, with the assistance of some of the whigs of the day, be- 
came a strong arm of the Revolution ; its opposition to arbitrary 
power, soon made its patriotic editor obnoxious to the government, 
and he was compelled to remove his establishment to Worcester in 
177.5, where it has continued to the present time. 

One of the objects of this distinguished association, besides such 
as are avowed by them in the beautiful quotation from Sir William 
Jones, viz : " Man and Nature, whatever is, or has been performed 
by the one, or produced by the other," would seem to have been 
the custody and preservation of the sacred flame, the beacon light 



76 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

of the Pilgrims, which was first enkindled upon the altar of freedom 
in the " Old Bay State," which cheered and warmed the hearts of 
her sons at Lexington and Concord, and illumined the summits of 
Bunker Hill and Dorchester ; and right well has this duty been 
performed by the Incorporators and their Successors, and confidently 
may it be hoped that the flame will not be suffered to expire, whilst 
its charge is entrusted to such men as Everett, Story, and Davis, 
the present officers of the Society. 

I call upon my brethren of the New York Historical Society to 
join in the following sentiment. 

" The Antiquarian Society of Massachusetts, and the cherished 
memory of Isaiah Thomas, its founder." 

Mr. BuRNsiDE, of the American Antiquarian Society, res- 
ponded as follows : — 

I assure the Gentlemen of the Historical Society of New York, 
that the Society of which I am a member cordially reciprocate the 
kind regard manifested on this occasion, and are always glad to 
have an opportunity to pledge their co-operation in the great object 
of the Historical Society. In the Political, and, I am sorry to say, 
in the Religious and Moral world, too, parltes exist, and in their 
struggle to obtain superiority much hostile feeling has been gener- 
ated. But I thank God here is common ground on which all parties 
can unite for a common purpose. Coming as we all do out of the 
turbid atmosphere of political strife, to breathe the pure air of intel- 
lectual enjoyment, we can well realize this sentiment. In this we 
shall rejoice, that there is a common ground on which all can join 
in expressing their sentiments without fear of offending, or of calling 
out the angry feelings and oppositions of our fellow men. 

As regards the lamented founder of our Institution, the gentleman 
who has just sat down, has but done him simple justice. I will 
only say that the late Isaiah Tliomas furnished an example woithy 
to be followed by our young men. He started in life without funds, 
without the influence of friends, or the patronage of relatives, and 
by his own efforts raised himself to the honorable position he occu- 
pied at the close of his useful life. He was indeed the founder of 
his own fortune and distinctions. He left ample estates, which 
were distributed among benevolent and useful institutions. I have 
said that this is common ground, for we have but one object, and 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 77 

that is the elevation of Man, Mr. Burnside then alluded in suitable 
terms to the position which the New York Historical Society held, 
and to the aid whicli it had lent to the Massachusetts Society in 
helping it on in its labors. There was one result, he remarked, 
which was secured by the mutual efforts of the Societies, which had 
not been noticed by the Orator of the evening. It is said that poli- 
tical parties are necessary to the security of our liberties. If so, 
then it is necessary that they should be under some controlling in- 
fluence. Such an influence would be found in the existence of 
Historical Societies. Whatever party might be entrusted with the 
administration of their country, they cannot be unmindful that 
their actions will become the subject of historical narration, and if 
even a man under a reckless infatuation, should forget the high trust 
reposed in him, and prostitute it to serve the base objects of his 
party, he will find that history will have a bad tale to tell of him, 
and his name will descend to posterity in no enviable light. 
Whereas, on the other hand, they will have a high inducement in 
such Societies, to follow out their laudable ambition, and to aim 
only at the good of their country. 

Mr. Burnside closed by offering the following toast: — 
" The Descendants of the Pilgrims, and of the Settlers of Man- 
hattan — Fraud or misfortune divided their fathers into separate com- 
munities, a common country unites their children, by the ties of a 
common brotherhood, and as fellow-cilizens of the Republic of 
Letters." 

Chief Justice Jones then said it was his duty to introduce to 
the kind regards of the company the Delegation of Connecticut, and 
what he had to say in the discharge of this duty, he would do in 
brief words. The State of Connecticut was emphatically a sister 
State. The ties which bound her to us were nearly as dear as 
those of nature. When the sons of New York and New England 
rose to burst asunder the bonds of the Parent Country, she came 
forward, and laying aside her prejudices, became as a brother in 
the glorious cause, and since then a co-worker in the great cause 
of civil improvement. After that bitter day had passed over, her 
young men came among the citizens of this State, and urged forward 
by their enterprise, the industry and energy which has since filled 
our ports with fleets of shipping, our docks with merchandise, and 
has sent the American Flag into every sea, and to every known 



78 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

portion of the globe. It was the enterprise of the sons of Connecti- 
cut — a sort of new element infused into our Dutch steadiness — 
which has filled our State with villages and schools, and has made 
her what she is proud to be called — the Empire State. Wherever 
New England sent her sons, there too she sent learning and reli- 
gion, and as she contributed to swell our wealth and greatness, so 
has she helped to elevate our moral and intellectual character. 
We have retained our Dutch character of prudence, but we have 
incorporated with it the enterprising character of New England. 

Chief Justice Jones gave as a sentiment — 

" The Historical Society of Connecticut — The youngest in 
the field, but not the less efficient in the cause." 

Hon. Thomas Day, of Hartford, replied on behalf of the 
Connecticut delegation. 

He thanked the Society in the name of the State and of the Society 
of which he was a membef, for the manner in which the venerable 
speaker had alluded to them, and in which the sentiments had been 
received by those around him. Of the State he should say nothing, 
but for the Institution to which reference had been made, he would 
say that although of tender age, it was vigorous and promising. 
Soon after its birth it had gone asleep and had a nap for some 
years. When it opened its eyes, it was wide awake, and was not 
sleepy yet. Conscious of a sound constitution and vigorous health, 
it went to work, and what it had to do, it accomplished. He 
acknowledged that a word of encouragement from a superior So- 
ciety was welcome ; and again, in behalf of his Association, he 
tendered his warmest thanks for that kind welcome. As he felt 
himself physically incapable of sending his voice through the room, 
he concluded by giving 

" Arch^ological Societies — Their course is onward and upward, 
let us give them a push and a lift." 

Mr. Adams rose and said — 

I have just received a letter, Sir, from a gentleman whom I am 
not personally acquainted with. He requests me to present to the 
Society a Coin of Massachusetts, illustrative of the first history of 
that Colony. It is known by the name of the Pine-tree Shilling ; 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 79 

and it is highly interesting in many respects from its associations. 
It was a coin made by an act of that Colony in 1652 ; and the 
coining of it was an act of independence in itself, inasmuch as the 
making of coin at all in the Colonies was high treason by the laws 
of England. And yet with that law in full force, and living under 
it, they did make coin ; and that act authorizing the Colony to do 
it remained in force till my time ; for T have seen and passed those 
Pine-tree Shillings in the days of my boyhood. It is well known 
that in almost all European countries it is high treason for any but 
the Government to make coin ; and it is part of the history of 
Massachusetts that her people did, in the face of this, continue to 
make and emit this coin. And they continued to make it until 
after the restoration of the Stuarts, but always with this year of 
1652 upon it, that they might not incur the penalty of the 
act. I concur with the gentleman who sends it, that it is an 
object worthy the acceptance of the Society. Although person- 
ally unknown to me, I have thought it my duty to present it to the 
Society in his name, and I hope that the letter will be read and 
the coin be accepted. And now I wish to say a few words 
more in relation to a subject that I ought to have touched upon 
when I was up before ; but the impression then upon my mind and 
feelings was so strong that the power of speech was almost taken 
from me. I ought to have spoken of your venerable President, and 
I could have wished to have spoken of him as though he was not 
present. I should have done so had he been here, and I have now 
a stronger impulse to make these observations than if he was 
present. I considered it a great honor when I received the 
letter inviting me to spend this day with your Society. I re- 
ceived a letter of invitation as many others did, and I appear 
here to-day in my individual capacity, and also as one of the 
delegates of five from the JVIassachusetts Society. To the 
letter which was sent me, your honorable President added a line 
saying, " I shall he glad to shake hands with you once more in this 
world!" Sir, if nothing else could have induced me, these words 
would have compelled my attendance here ; and I can conceive 
of nothing that would have prevented me. I have lived long. Sir, 
in this world ; and I have been connected with all sorts of men — 
of all sects and descriptions ! I have been in the public service 
for a great part of my life, and filled various offices of trust in 
conjunction with that venerable gentleman, Albert Gallatin. I 



80 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

have known him half a century. In many things we difTered — 
on many questions of public interest and policy we were divided — 
and in the history of parties in this conntry there is no man from 
whom I have so widely differed as I have from him. But on other 
things we have harmonized ! And now there is no man with 
whom I more thoroughly agree on all points than I do with him. But 
one word more — let me say before I leave you and him — birds of 
passage as we are bound to a warmer and more congenial clime — 
that, among all the public men with whom I have been associated 
in the course of my political life, whether agreeing or differing in 
opinion with him, I have always found him to be an honest and 
an honorable man. 

Hon. George Folsom offered some remarks of a highly 
complimentary character to the Mexican Minister, and gave 
as a toast — 

"Ancient Mexico — The classic soil of the "New World" — 
whose ruined cities and decaying temples, like the remains of 
Roman greatness, richly reward the researches of the scholar, and 
furnish pregnant themes for the contemplation of the philosopher 
and the philanthropist." 

General Almonte said in reply — Unable as I am to express my 
sentiments in a foreign tongue, I hope the Historical Society of the 
State of New York will excuse any omission on my part. I can 
only thank the gentleman who has named my country, and say in 
reply, I wish the prosperity of the Historical Society of New 
York ; and I wish also that its diffusion of knowledge may extend, 
not only to the United States, but to the whole Continent of 
America. 

Joseph Blttnt, Esq. said that the name of the State of Massa- 
chusetts was as dear to Americans, as that of Marathon was to the 
Grecians. Her purity of purpose and her heroic example, are 
traits in her history which she can as well be proud of now, as 
she was in the days of the Revolution. He proposed — 

" Massachusetts — Her present history forms a proud comment 
on the glorious teachings of the past." 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 81 

Hon. Leverett Saltonstall, of Salem, Mass., responded. 

He said, he supposed he might have been excused, after the ad- 
dresses we have all listened to with so much pleasure, and he 
begged gentlemen not to be alarmed for fear he intended to make a 
long speech. Mr. Saltonstall then spoke of the galaxy of honored 
men who formed the Massachusetts Historical Society ; and refer- 
ring to the oration of Mr. Brodhead, expressed a desire that the 
example set by New York, would be followed, in the present hal- 
cyon days of peace, by each of the old States of the confederacy. 

These Historical Societies were doing much to throw light upon 
the events of our early days ; and he desired to impress upon all, 
the importance of peserving the most trifling incidents, seemingly 
of merely local importance, as they all would eventually contribute 
to the perfection of our History. 

Mr. Saltonstall then referied, in humorous terms, to the destruc- 
tion of the Records of the Dutch West India Company ; and to the 
fact stated by the orator of the evening, of the purchase of the 
Island upon which this great city now stands, for the round sum of 
twenty-four dollars — a Dutch bargain — but one with which Jona- 
than himself, would, no doubt, have been vastly pleased. 

He also referred to the strong tendency, which had always ex- 
isted in Massachusetts, to independence, and to the formation of the 
General Courts and the issuing of writs always under the seal of 
the State and its name. 

Mr. Saltonstall here referred to the peculiar history of the depo- 
sition of Sir Edmund Andros, by the Bostonians, on the news of 
the landing of the Prince of Orange in England, and the placing 
of Mr. Bradstreet in the Official Chair. Mr. Saltonstall alluded, 
in the most humorous manner, to the conduct of Elisha Cook, one 
of his own ancestors, from whom he derived his own democracy. 

These things led to the Revolution and prepared the way for it, 
teaching the people to look to their rights, so that when the final 
question came on, they were ready to submit to no aggression, and 
this led to the glorious establishment of our rights. We have an 
advantage over all nations in being able to trace our history from 
the beginning. We have no fabulous age, but it has more romance 
than any which has ever been written. Mr. Saltonstall then re- 
ferred to the first colonization and to the the institutions of the 
adventurers in the May-flower. Harvard University and the school 



82 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

system, were traced back to these adventurers — and he concluded 
with the following toast : 

" Our Ancestors and oitr Posterity — Whatever else we leave 
to the generations who are to follow us will be valueless, unless 
we transmit to them those principles of civil liberty — that determi- 
nation to resist oppression — that veneration for Christianity and its 
institutions, and those free forms of civil government which we 
have inherited from our Fathers." 

Professor Mason now rose and said, the Committee of Arrange- 
ments were a little concerned, lest this celebration should pass off 
a real down-east affair. If Pennsylvania is called out, we have a 
speech in praise of Franklin and the elder Adams ; and, whatever 
topic is started, seems to waken up a New England spirit, and draws 
its illustration from that quarter. 

We cannot deny, that most of us are descended from the 
Yankees, or are somewhat allied to them or dependent on them : 
but then we must remember what our own veracious and eloquent 
historian has recorded concerning us, namely : that when our 
Father Jonathan came to settle in New York, and found the 
Yankee name unpopular, he turned Dutchman, that is, he married 
a burghers' daughter. For the honor of our mothers, then, we must 
begin to draw a line, and claim for New York the labors and the 
honors of all our converted and adopted Dutchmen. Therefore, in 
behalf of the Committee, I now call that Dutch-looking gentleman, 
on the opposite side of the hall, though a native of this metropolis, 
to lay down his pipe, close his meditation, and speak something for 
the honor of the New York Historical Society. 

Dr. Francis, being thus called upon, rose and said : — 

I have been so recently Polked, that I feel hardly able to say any 
thing, however memorable the occasion for which the Society is con- 
vened. But my case confirms the illustrious Baron Haller's view of 
life: his theory was, that there was within it a combination of two 
forces : the nervous power, and a vis insita. My nervous power is 
completely exhausted — I have a little of the vis insita left. The 
elaborate discourse which I have heard this afternoon from the State 
Delegate, (Mr. Brodhead) has, however, proved so agreeable to 
my feelings, that aided by its influence I am enabled to say a few 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 83 

words. I am satisfied that no individual could have performed the 
arduous and responsible duties assigned him better, if so well. The 
mission was intrusted to a gentleman who has discharged the trust 
in a way no less honorable to himself than confirmatory of the sound 
judgment of the distinguished Governor of the State by whom he 
was chosen. 

From long association with the Historical Society of New York, 
I might at this time be justified in dwelling at some length on its 
early history ; but in so doing, I fear I should trespass too long on 
your indulgence. I however may remark, that the Society took its 
rise and was incorporated at a period in our political history of great 
excitement through the whole country. The administration of Jeffer- 
son is recognized by all as an important era in our nation's annals. 
New measures and new men ; personal prejudices, old attachments, 
novel theories ; these, and a thousand other circumstances, exer- 
cised the judgment and the political asperities of the people of that 
day, to an inconceivable extent. Now it was, that the sacred ex- 
positor of the pulpit adverted with unbecoming latitude to the crisis 
in the times : here we had one who craved attention to the direful 
calamity which threatened us, when the better to secure ourselves 
from the poison of infidelity and Tom Paine, it behoved the believer 
to secure his Bible somewhat after the manner of old Dr. Franklin's 
mother, lest the Book of Life should be blotted out : there, on the 
opposite side, was another, who told us that a republican population 
were not to be admonished by the precepts of a volume which had 
been ordered to be read in churches by his Majesty^s special com- 
mand : while a third in stentorian accents would close his clerical 
service with the fervent hope that the Goddess of Liberty, seated on 
Alpine heights, might ever watch over the destinies of the land 
favored by such a ruler as Jefferson, whose administration was 
emphatically declared the genuine essence of rational freedom, and 
whose excellence both of head and heart, as the preacher most vehe- 
mently averred, was far supoior to thai of either of his predecessors. 
Most unquestionably these several views of the policy of a repub- 
lican government, sustained by different individuals in different 
walks of life, awakened new desires, among all, the better to under- 
stand the story of our country's wrongs and the war of the revolu- 
tion : added to which, the State of New York had noble facts in her 
trials for freedom, in her Indian warfares, in the incidents connect- 
ed with the occurrences of the Stamp Act, and the Sons of Liberty ; 



84 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

and in the elaborate discussions ontlie adoption of the Constitution. 
Beside all this, our city boasted as residents among us, of the venera- 
ble Chancellor Livingston, the inflexible George Clinton, Rufus 
King, Gouverneur Morris, C. D. Colden, her Hamilton and Jay. 

Surrounded by materials of this nature ; observing how liable 
the most important public occurrences were to misrepresentation, 
and that our posterity would look in vain for a true record unless 
the preservative power of an Historical confederacy should be 
summoned in its behalf, like unto that which had for years signal- 
ized glorious Massachusetts, New York determined to adopt like 
measures for the same great end ; and a body of the distinguished 
men of forty years ago convened together in the Hall of that edifice 
where Washington was inaugurated President of the United States, 
and Trumbull's great National Portraits, ornamented its walls, 
and laid the foundation of this admirable Institution. Its incorpora- 
tion by the legislature soon followed, and the bounty of the State 
to some extent was secured for its perpetuity. 

The history of our library, (continued Dr. F.) is a curious one. 
Donations were at first our principal means of accumulation, and 
not a few of the most valuable works which it now possesses were 
of that number at that time. In 1812, when the war was de- 
clared, the entire collection of books and manuscripts was so in- 
considerable, that one or two cart loads were all that we had to 
transfer from one place of safety to another, apprehensive that by 
invasion the enemy might possess the city. Shortly after this pe- 
riod we purchased the rare and valuable treasures of the late Rev. 
Timothy A.lden, which embraced no small portion of the rarest 
productions of the press, the Plymouth Rock disquisitions and con- 
tiguous geography, Boston News Letter, Ames' Almanacs, the Mag- 
nalia and other works of like interest to the American Antiquary. 
We thought we were doing service to the mental progress of the 
country in bringing together as in a focus the offspring of its 
authors however widely scattered, or on whatever topic the intellec- 
tual acumen of our contrymen might be expended. Hence the 
library was then swelled in amount at least, by the Spelling Books, 
and Arithmetics, and Monitors, and School-master's Assistants ; and 
the catalogue of all things pronounced literary purposely designed 
to teach the young ideas how to shoot. The religious literature 
thus grouped together for the same purpose abounded in sermons, 
tracts on baptism, an J church government, polemical disquisitions, 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 86 

on divers topics, and in narratives of Indian conversions, and the 
progress of the missionaries- We justly boasted of the discourse 
of the Elder Gooiiin. Hymn Books for the better devotion of the 
various sects of theology were not overlooked ; it was argued they 
threw light on the advancement of religious belief ; and while 
Low, Searson, and Honey wood, (for at that time we had no Bryant, 
nor Hoffman, nor Willis, nor Wetmore, nor Morris, nor Halleek,) 
found a place among American bards, the improved translation of 
David's Psalms, by Joel Barlow of Connecticut, could not be rejected. 
This sturdy democrat, who had long ago chaunted, in no mean ac- 
cents, the " Conspiracy of Kings," was found hardy enough to 
attempt a republican version of the divine emanation of the Royal 
Psalmist, the better to rear up the fabric of his country's great- 
ness : How well he excelled in his patriotic efforts may be judged 
by a stanza. 

" How glorious is our President 

Who rules above the sky ! 
The people all with one consent. 

Avow his majesty." 

At this early day of the Library many works of high importance 
and now extremely rare, were obtained on the history of the 
American revolution. We are quite ample on that prolific subject. 
Of the vast number of travellers through the country from its 
earliest period down to the time of Jansen, and Bulow, Parkinson 
and Priest, a very great collection was made ; and if we abound in 
the productions of such libellous itinerants, it may be permitted to 
add, that we have also within our cases the sterling productions of 
the Jesuits and other old observers ; Purchas' Pilgrims, and the 
Baron Humboldt, and numerous other precious works of a like 
nature. 

In works of American science and in the happier productions of 
American literature we gathered much for the future investigator. 
Topographical works on numerous districts of the country may be 
found recorded in the catalogue : and among the books we thought 
necessary for a library collection, were the histories of our Colleges, 
and the elementary treatises issued by their respective professors. 
We were not backward in adding to the number the Lectures on 
Rhetoric by the venerable man who now honors our meeting, the 
Hon. John Quincy Adams. The firstSermon preached in America • 
8 



86 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

the first Medical Treatise on the American method of practice ; 
the first Inaugural Dissertation for the M. D., in our Colleges ; 
with innumerable others of such rarities are safely deposited with 
us. Adrian Vanderdonk, and Megapolensis, found ready admit- 
tance within our walls : the first a great lawyer and naturalist ; 
the second an eminent divine and doctor of physic ; and tlie head 
of the old Dutch and German doctors whose dynasty terminated with 
the life of the venerable Dr. George Anthon. 

It deserves to be stated that our voluminous Congressional Docu- 
ments and State Papers are not equalled by any collection else- 
where deposited. The State owes to our energies the ability of 
completing the publication of the important Journals of the Legisla- 
tive proceedings of New York during an eventful period of the 
revolutionary contest. 

t^ In early periodical literature, none need say the library is 
barren. Whether in Magazines and Journals of a monthly issue 
or in the class of publications, denominated newspapers, our 
materials are so copious that scarcely an association in the land 
can bear competition with us. Bradford's Weekly Gazette, and 
Zenger's Weekly Journal, Rivington's Royal Gazette, and the old 
Daily Advertiser, Freneau'sTime Piece, &c. are conspicuous as the 
most important for historical research. The newspaper press is 
endeared to the feelings of Americans by the strongest considerations 
of patriotism. Franklin, the Apostle of Liberty, more than a century 
ago published in a newspaper animadversions on the legislative 
enactments of Great Britain relative to the colonies. The free 
strictures on the administration of Governor Cosby and his council 
printed in the Weekly Journal of the City of New York, by John 
Peter Zenger, roused the energies of a whole people, and to use 
the language of Governeur Morris in a conversation with the 
speaker, "the trial of Zenger in 1735, was the germ of American 
freedom — the morning star of that liberty which subsequently revo- 
lutionized America." "Common Sense" first appeared in the col- 
umns of a newspaper during the days of peril, that tried men's souls, 
and the philosophical exposition and defence of the Constitution and 
the Union, which Hamilton, and Jay, and Madison published under 
the title of the Federalist, was first submitted to the people through 
the pages of a Gazette. 

In fine, let the labors of the original promoters of this Society 
be considered with the successful results of the active intelli- 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 87 

gence which has controlled its destinies for a number of years past, 
and the conviction will prove abiding, that our present collections 
are worthy of consultation by the highest minds in the land when 
accuracy of information and curious knowledge are demanded by the 
American Historian. Such was the opinion of that eminent indivi- 
dual whose zeal, talents, and impartiality in historical literature 
have secured to him the lasting gratitude of his countrymen : I 
allude to Tared Sparks, the biographer of Washington and Franklin. 
Indeed, I am almost daring enough to conjecture that even our 
intellectual Colossus, Daniel Webster, might augment in dimen- 
sions by a survey of our recondite treasures. 

Were I not admonished by the lateness of the hour and too 
powerfully impressed with the assemblage of intellect which honors 
this evening's repast I might enlarge on some of the more prominent 
individual characteristics of those who, whilst living amongst us 
most honored our associatioti, and whose final departure we have 
so often been called upon to record. A few words must suffice. 

The first meeting of the Society, which was convened to cele- 
brate its successful organization, took place upon the delivery of Dr. 
Millei-'s discourse on the 4th of September 1809. The address of 
that distinguished and now sole surviving original member of our 
Society, with the exception of William Johnson, LL. D., embraced 
an important historical disquisition on the discovery of New York 
by Henry Hudson. At that celebration, which was in intellectual 
display second only to that assembled at the present festivity, were 
to be seen the venerable Egbert Benson, our first President, whose 
remarkable essay on Indian names deserved a better fate than 
it met with ; Samuel and Edward Miller, the former still surviving 
in mental vigor, and known to both worlds for his " Brief Retro- 
spect of the 18th Century :" the latter long since dead, but eminent 
in our medical annals as an elegant writer and medical historian: 
Dr. David Hosack, the great physician and teacher, who departed 
this life in 1835, an original member of the Society from its first 
meeting, for several years its President, and historically known as 
the faithful narrator of the Canal Policy of this State, and the. 
biographer of Dewitt Clinton. Dr. Hugh Williamson, long since 
dead, the associate of Franklin and the Historian of North Carolina, 
a stern patriot in perilous times, and who comes forcibly to our 
memories by many peculiarities, and by his ample series of cocked 
hats, so well preserved and so strikingly calculated by their dis- 



88 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

tinctive formations to mark the several periods of that manufacture 
during our revolutionary struggle. Nor were the men of a sacred 
order indifferent to our first efforts, or in any wise reluctant to aid 
by their counsel and talents. I will only mention the sedate and 
learned Bishop Moore of the Episcopal Church, and John M. Mason, 
the thunderbolt of pulpit oratory ; wiih Doctors John H. Livingston 
and John Rodgers, the venerable Pastors of the Dutch Reformed 
and Presbyterian Churches of this city : men who, equally by purity 
of life, decision of character, and the formidable dimensions of their 
respective Doddridge wigs, commanded the respect of the good, and 
challenged the homage of all. — You have lately adopted becoming 
resolutions concerning the late John Pintard : to him is fully due 
the merit of being the most prominent of all individuals in founding 
this Association, on which for many years he continued to bestow 
his personal labors and lavish his pecuniary means. 

With your kind indulgence I will call to mind one other 
of our early associates, not long ago active among us, and 
whom many now present may remember for his unaffected 
simplicity and uniform urbanity, his various and extensive know- 
ledge and his American feeling. Few among our original mem- 
bers were more in earnest to countenance this Institution than the 
learned Dr. Samuel L. Mitchill. Its objects he regarded of 
national importance, and with the same impulse which urged him 
to suggest to his countrymen a new name for the land of their birth, 
did his patriotism enjoin upon him, whether in the hall of legisla- 
lation or in the retirement of the nursery, to inculcate the value of 
a distinctive appellation for the American Confederacy, and the 
numerous benefits which must follow from a thorough acquaintance, 
by the people, with the natural history and resources, the political 
and social institutions of the Empire State and of the American 
Union. You have not yet published the correspondence filed with 
your MSS. which occurred between Dr. Mitchill and the late 
Chancellor Livingston, touching the merits of his doctrine of Sep- 
ton. You are aware that the Doctor maintained that the cause of 
pestilence was the influence which that invisible agent exercised on 
human beings. As his theory was an acid it was, of course, to be 
subdued by an alkali, and the facetious Chancellor tells the Doctor 
that he had earned in the cause of humanity, for the perpetuity 
of his own great renown, a monument of hard soap from the soap 
boilers. You have now a philosophical reason why the goodly 






NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 89 

fathers of New York tolerate, with so much indifference, so many 
noxious operations in our city, and so many local sources of dis- 
temper among us, without ever exercising a detersive influence for 
their mitigation : they are alkalescent, and by chemical laws, in due 
time, they neutralize the formidable Python : But genius will have 
its vagaries. If closet study led Dr. Mitchill to philosophize on 
the cis-Atlantic world as the older of the two, and to place the 
Garden of Eden in Onondaga Hollow, charity may tolerate this 
wondrous capability of his organ of credulity, and find a recom- 
pense in the consideration that he contended for the unity of the 
human species ; that he cherished the Red Man of his country as a 
brother, and that a beneficient theology pervaded all his instruction, 
whether descanting on Niagara's Flood and the Oratory of Red 
Jacket, or unfolding the hidden mysteries of the Cryptogamia and 
the osteology of the Megalonyx. Dr. Mitchill deserves our lasting 
thanks for his numerous papers on Physical Science, and his His- 
torical Discourse on the Botanical Writers of America. I think 
I knew him well by many years of collegiate toil with him in the 
same school of medicine : Mitchill was to the back-bone American. 

I must reserve for another occasion a notice of the important 
part which the Hon. Gouveneur Morris and the late Dewitt Clinton 
took in advancing the interests of this Society ; and I would make 
a like apology, the want of time, for not bringing vividly before you 
some notice of the acts in our behalf of the late Anthony Bleecker, 
and of Robert Fulton, of our still active and learned associate, the 
Hon. G. C. Verplanck, and of our American Blackstone, Chancel- 
lor Kent. 

I need hardly add to these hasty reminiscences of my native 
New York, that the stewards of our early days, like the same in- 
valuable officers of the present festival, were in no wise behind 
hand in making the most ample provision for the corporeal support 
and mental recreation of their enlightened guests. Then, as now, 
our t»Kes largely displayed the bounties of a beneficent Providence ; 
the sanative influence of our circulating medium was neither 
endangered by false acceptances, nor impaired by over- issues ; 
while Hygisea at that time, like our honored guest the Mai^r Har- 
per at the present, discharged her wonted trusts in admonitory pleni- 
tude. Our patriotism was invigorated by " Hail Columbia" and 
" Yankee Doodle." But the advantage in this respect is vastly 
youra to-day. At that period in the divine art, we had little ac- 
8* 



90 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

quaintance with Italian music : the monad which evolved Ole Bull 
had scarcely then assumed a formative process ; Rossini had not yet 
ravished the world; the sublime strains of the Opera had not yet 
resounded on our shores ; and " Lucy Long" and " Old Dan Tuck- 
er" had not appeared among us. 

But a moment longer. If a tolerable memory serves me, our 
Ganymede on the festive occasion which I have dwelt upon was old 
Christopher Colles. He was by birth an Irishman, and losing his 
parents when an infant, was brought up by the renowned Pocock, 
the Orientalist. He was disciplined in classic learning, and well 
versed in mathematical science. He emigrated to this country some- 
time before the close of the war of the revolution. Modest and un- 
assuming in his character, and no special business presenting him an 
opportunity of profitable employment, he devoted what portion of 
his time he could to land-surveying, in different parts of this state 
and elsewhere. He published the first book of roads through the 
country about 1789, and lectured in different schools on mathema- 
tics and electricity. Were I to chronicle him in the progress of 
science in America, he should be specified as the first person who 
in this country gave public instruction on the fancies and the facts 
of magnetism. He was also the first individual who caught the 
idea of supplying the City of New York with pure spring water 
from a remote source, and the Bronx he conceived the best origin 
for that purpose. My old friend Charles King might have said more 
of him in his valuable memoir on the " Aqueduct." 

Through life, Colles struggled with adverse forces, to the 
time of his death in 1821, at the advanced age of 84 years and 
upwards. John Pintard and myself had the honor to be his only 
mourners at the grave. He lies in the Episcopal Church-yard in 
Hudson street ; but no mark designates the spot. The poor old 
man rarely experienced the enjoyments of life, and was often with- 
out its smallest necessaries. For many years his telescope and 
microscope supported him by the casual pittance of a six ceflPpiece 
for a look at Venus, or the circulation through the web of a frog's 
foot. What a contrast in conditions of life was Colles in New York 
with hifold master, the affluent Dolland of London, with whom he 
had worked at acromatic lenses. Yet his pressing necessities were 
often relieved by the bounty of John Pintard ; and I, in my way, 
pro re nata, administered him an occasional dose. When oppressed 
with inward sorrows he read Kuler and Maclaurin, and summoned 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 91 

his ideality in calculating the safest means to sustain a Bank Cur- 
rency. Colles cherished the doctrine of signs, which he derived, 1 
believe, from his acquaintance with Culpepper. He was wont to say 
that a disastrous star presided at his birth, and that if he had been 
brought up to the trade of a hatter, the people would have come 
into the world without heads. Thus much of Colles : and thus 
much was assuredly due to the memory of the man whose investi- 
gations more than half a century ago have ultimately led to the 
erection of that vast national undertaking, the Croton Water Works. 
Let me. Gentlemen, in conclusion, give you a sentiment : 
" The State of New York — Worthy of an Historical Society." 

Rev. Dr. De Witt said that at the late hour of the evening, he 
would refer to only one spot connected with the history of the 
Country, and that should be Plymouth Rock. As the Children of 
Israel were refreshed by the water which flowed from the rock 
smitten by the rod of Moses, so had the people of this country their 
most cherished principles from the pilgrims of Plymouth. As one 
who traced his ancestry to Holland, he remembered with pride that 
the pilgrims first found a resting place from oppression in that land. 
He would give as a sentiment — 

" The Puritan Pilgrims of the 22d December, 1620 — The old 
Bay State of Massachusetts, and the worthy delegation of her His- 
torical Society." 

Hon. W. W. Campbell then rose and said : — 

Mr. President — I have been requested to offer a sentiment having 
reference to the State of Georgia. Tlie colony of Georgia was 
the last planted by Great Britain within the present limits of the 
United States, but though last she was not least in importance or 
in interest. Her founder, though little over thirty years of age at 
the time, was a member of the Brhish Parliament, had distinguished 
himself in the Continental war of Europe, and was a scholar and a 
philanthropist. With him came John and Charles Wesley, whose 
names have become familiar to the great denomination of Christians 
to which they belonged and of which they were the founders. They 
planted the first settlement on the spot where now stands the city 
of Savannah. I offer the following sentiment : 

"General James Oglethorpe — The founder of Georgia, youngest 



92 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

child of the Colonial Enterprise of England. He was a Hero, a 
Statesman and a Philanthropist, and his name should be held in 
lasting and grateful remembrance." 

John Jay, Esa. in reply, said : — 

Mr. President and Gentlemen — Having been honored by a re- 
quest from the Historical Society of Georgia to represent them on 
this occasion, I rise to respond to the honorable gentleman who has 
proposed to you the memory of Oglethorpe, Georgians may well 
be proud of their gallant and chivalric founder, and look back 
with interest to his landing on the Bluff of Yamacaw, near Savan- 
nah, bringing with him hardy peasantry from England, zealous 
Zaltsburghers from Nassau, sturdy Highlanders from Scotland, 
and brave emigrants from the Emerald Isle ; and the history of 
the young colony, thus peopled by men mostly of that Protestant 
faith which, in the Reformation, established those principles of civil 
liberty that were re-affirmed and re-established in our Revolution, 
is characterized by many of those familiar passages of romance 
and daring, which make so frequently our colonial story. The 
invasion of Florida, under Oglethorpe, and the unsuccessful attack 
upon St. Augustine — the invasion of Georgia by a Spanish fleet 
from the Havana, and the defeat of two hundred of the enemy in 
the Bloody Swamp — the return of Oglethorpe, and the subsequent 
difficulties of the President and Council with the Indians — all 
these are blended with more peaceful and delightful memories of 
the ardor, zeal, and resistless eloquence of Whitfield — the holy 
labors and preachings of the two Wesleys, of whom the honorable 
gentleman has spoken — and the gentle benevolence and faithful 
friendship of Selina, Countess of Huntingdon, whose name and 
features are still preserved in an orphan-house which she founded. 

At the commencement of that contest for popular rights, which 
ended in the Revolution, Georgia exhibited a spirit akin to that of 
the sons of the Hollanders and the Pilgrims. She early delegated 
Franklin to ^^solicit the affairs of the Province in England, and it 
was then that he so fearlessly vindicated the rights of his country- 
men in the presence of the rulers of Great Britain. When the 
Boston Port Bill was passed the burst of indignation it excited in the 
North was answered by a responsive feeling at the South. A gene- 
ral meeting of the Georgia colony was held, and this and other 



4 
NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 93 

similar enactments of the British Parliament, were declared to be 
" contrary to natural justice and repugnant to the spirit of the Eng- 
lish constitution" — a subscription was opened for the suffering Bos- 
tonians, and 600 tierces of rice were contributed in a few hours. 

During the Revolution, the patriotism of the Georgians was 
severely tried. No State of the old Thirteen was scourged more 
cruelly, or left more defenceless ; and their Historical Society have 
already shown by their labors that they know how to preserve in 
freshness, the memories of their fathers, and keep before the rising 
generation those pure examples which, like Oglethorpe, are kindly 
given by Heaven to shed the lustre of their virtues on our onward 
path, and lend their grateful influence in forming our national char- 
acter. 

In 1837, the State appointed Mr. Howard their Historical Agent 
in Europe, and his efforts have been crowned with the same success 
which has followed those of our distinguished guest and orator. 
Twenty-two large folio volumes were gathered in the various 
offices of England, and when these and the other early memorials 
of the colonies shall have been collected, it will be more clearly 
seen than ever, that though so young a land, our history has many 
features of calm and severe beauty, and that we could no where 
find nobler models fur our children than among the first settlers on 
our shores and the peasant heroes of our Revolution. 

I beg leave to offer you, Mr. President : — 

" The Motto of Georgia — Non sibi sed aliis — Descriptive of 
the character of our fathers, and of the labors of the historian. 
May it soon characterize also our national and State Legislation, 
and our domestic institutions." 

Rev. Dr. Bethune of Philadelphia was called on, and made 
a very eloquent and effective speech, and concluded with 
offering as a toast : 

"The Orator of the Evening — He has acquitted himself worthy 
of the office given him."* 

Mr. Adams then left the hall. The company all rose as 
he passed out, and as he departed, three cheers were given 
with the greatest unanimity. 

* There was no response to this toast, as Mr. Brodhead had previously retired. 



94 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THS 

James W. Gerard, Esq, being called upon, remarked as 
follows : — 



Mr. President — I am the last man — but one — I am part of the 
machinery of this Festival, to address you at this late hour of the 
night, or rather early hour in the morning and the duty assigned me 
is to give a sentiment complimentary to the mercantile interests of 
our country. What I have therefore to say, I assure you is the result 
of preparation, and not springing from the impulse of the moment. 

The gentleman from Pennsylvania, told you of the compliment 
he received in being selected to respond for his native State, and 
seemed to be very grateful for any compliment he or his State re- 
ceived. I must tell you of the left-handed compliment paid to me 
by the Committee, who said that by their rule I would be entitled to 
speak ten minutes, but that if I would only use half that time, they 
would be very much obliged to me. 

I have selected for my theme, the Origi7i of Nations. The " Ori- 
gin of Nations" in five minutes!!! but if mind can communicate 
with mind, with lightning speed, or rather in no time, from Wash- 
ington to Baltimore, by the new telegraph, why cannot I in five 
minutes, circumnavigate the Globe ? The reverend gentleman 
from Philadelphia, who just addressed you, pursued the dictates of 
his high and holy calling, when he preached to you of peace and 
good will to men, beautifully illustrated by the friendly greeting at 
your table, to which he adverted, of two distinguished public men, 
in the evening of their days, who had long been politically op- 
posed. Every man to his business. My profession, on the other 
hand, is of an antagonistic character ; it is the business of my life 
to ride the whirl- wind and direct the storm of human passion. In 
pursuance of my calling therefore, I throw down my gauntlet 
against the claim made so often to night of the benefits to be derived 
from Historical Societies, and contend that their utility is very 
doubtful ; at all events to Nations in their infancy. 

There is too much truth and matter of fact about such Societies, 
their Archives and their Recording Secretaries — every thing is re- 
duced to the standard of reality, and they record the origin of 
nations, and the biography of their founders, with too unerring a pen. 
Well was it for the great nations of antiquity, that they had no 
Historical Societies to treasure up the sober realities of their be- 
ginnings. Many of the great kingdoms of olden time, sprung from 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 95 

humble sources. Chance and accident have given birth to many 
nations, as well as to individuals. Many a nation whose origin is 
lost in fable, was founded by Patriots, who like some of modern 
days, " left their country for their country's good." 

Whence sprung mighty Rome. The power, political and reli- 
gious, that for five-and-twenty hundred years has controlled the 
bodies or the minds of men? From an adventurer, who had 
no father, and a she-wolf for a mother ; but whether a wolf of four 
or two legs, I believe Historical Societies have not yet precisely de- 
termined. And how did he gather his millions, with whom he 
aftewards overrun the world ? By planting his standard on the 
Palatine Hill, and calling on the renegades and outcasts of Italy, 
to whom he gave a refuge, to rally around it ; so that I have no 
doubt, that at that day, the meaning of the expression, " go?ie <o 
^ome" was as significant as that of the present day, "^one <o 
Texas:' 

Other nations took advantage of the absence of Historical Socie- 
ties, by claiming an origin far more respectable than was the truth. 
The Egyptians claimed that they were descended directly from the 
Gods — the Greeks that they sprung full grown from the Earth. In 
fact you will find that where the founders of nations did not know 
who their fathers were on earth, they claimed to be descended from 
their deities in Heaven, as there was not then a Recording Secre- 
tary to drive them from high Olympus' seat. 

Many nations owe their origin to Comviercial Colonization. Three 
thousand years ago the Phoenician merchants, from the overflowing 
of their wealth and zealous enterprize, lined the shores of the 
Mediterranean, with Carthage and other noble cities which they 
founded. In those days when the Princes were merchants, their 
neighbor, Solomon, was not only the wisest man, and the most 
powerful King, but the most enterprising merchant of his day. 
Then Hiram, King of Tyre, and Solomon, King of Judah, joined 
their treasures and their fleets together, and projected their exten- 
sive commercial speculations, not merely on the coasts of the 
Great Water, at whose head their kingdoms were situated, but on 
the Red Sea and the Italian Gulf, even to the Indian Ocean — car- 
rying on their commercial speculations under the old firm of Hiram 
8f Solomon, and if there had then been an Historical Society to 
record the fact, I have no doubt they would have found that in 
some of their operations Queen Sheba was a secret partner. 



96 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

When the adverse winds would not allow the vessels of Solomon 
to pass down the Red Sea, he formed his caravans to track the 
desert, for his commercial intercourse with the great Nations of the 
far East, and Tadmor of the Desert, which was his Caravansera or 
half-way house, where the merchants of the East and West could 
meet and make their traffic, became from commercial wealth, that 
splendid Palmyra, the wonder of the world, which soon threw the 
shafts of its noble columns, amid the branches of its lofty palm- 
trees, towering to the clouds. 

We have all heard much of Jason and his brave Argonauts, in 
their noble ship Argo, sailing from Thessaly to Colchis in search 
of the Golden Fleece — fabulous history has thrown much of ro- 
mance about Jason, his enchantress Medea, and his chivalrous 
enterprize; but if there had been then an Historical Society, what 
would have been the truth they would have been compelled to 
record ! Merely a new opening of some enterprizing merchants of 
Thessaly, in the wool trade. 

When in the fifteenth century the crescent of the Moslem sup- 
planted the Cross on the Walls of Constantinople, and the Scimetar 
of the Turk drove out the men of learning and genius, to seek 
asylum in other countries, the merchants of Genoa, Venice and 
Florence, gave that protection to the banished literati of the East- 
ern Empire, which caused the revival of letters and the fine arts 
in Europe, and we find the Medici dispensing their Ducal power in 
Florence with one hand, and their merchandize with the other. 

I need not recall to your recollection the power of the niprchants 
and bankers of Europe at the present day — they hold the purse- 
strings, the modern sinews of war. When Rothschild speaks, then 
sounds the trump to battle ; when Rothschild shakes his head, then 
ceases the cannon's roar, and all is hushed in peace. 

In looking around upon the Merchants of our own country, we 
have much to be proud of — we find in them the patrons of all that 
is excellent in art, and of all the great institutions which adorn and 
give vigor to our country. It was a merchant of Philadelphia who 
maintained the sinking credit of our Government in one of its dark- 
est hours of peril, and it was a merchant of our own city also who 
conceived and achieved the enterprise of settling the great North 
West Coast of our own boundless Continent. 

I have thus sailed round the nations of the worl<!| in nearly my 
five minutes. To conclude, I give as my sentiment : — 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. ^ 

"The Merchants of America — The Modern Argonauts, who 
have not only searched for, but found the Golden Fleece." 

James De Peyster Ogden, Esq., President of the Chamber 
of Commerce, replied as follows : — 

Mr. President — History is a science that treats of man in his 
commercial as well as his social and political relations, and His- 
tory is indebted to commerce for too many of its most important 
and valuable contributions and acquisitions not to be willing, at all 
times, to acknowledge its obligations. The high rank, the ex- 
tended sway, and the enduring power which commercial nations 
have obtained and enjoyed, both in ancient and modern times, are 
well known, and stand conspicuous on the page of History. Car- 
thage, in her day, owed strength, and power, and influence to 
Commerce ; and if Rome had patronised and protected it, its liber- 
alizing influence might have preserved her liberties — at least have 
delayed her fall. 

The celebrated Hanseatic League gave laws, in its day, to the 
commercial world, and caused the development and establishment 
of that commercial policy which has since been connected with 
all political relations and now forms the basis of most national 
treaties, and this commercial league maintained its permanent as- 
cendancy for nearly 350 years. England depends upon Commerce 
for her political power and her naval supremacy. 

The discovery of America effected an important change in com- 
merce, politics and science, and since we have assumed a rank 
among nations, we too have been emphatically a commercial peo- 
ple. In 1670 the shipping of this great commercial port was 1500 
tons. The United States are now the second commercial nation of 
the world. The first overt act of our Revolution was committed 
on board a ship, and performed in the service of Commerce. 

It is often the privilege and prerogative of its liberalizing spirit 
to despoil the despot of power, and break the chains of the oppress- 
ed, for Commerce is ever found either to precede or accompany the 
march of rational freedom and of equal rights. Commerce thus 
becomes instrumental in giving rise to important events, and accor- 
dingly may be said to create important facts for history to record. 

The Commerce of our country by extending itself over every 
sea, and opening an intercourse and making us acquainted with all 
9 



98 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OP THE 

people, establishes that neighborhood among nations which enables 
History to visit and examine for herself, and the treasures of histo- 
rical research are thus brought home to her very doors. 

This Society, then, Mr. President, must indirectly share in our 
commercial prosperity, for commerce stimulates and rewards 
honest industry, and laudable enterprise, while its pursuits tend di- 
rectly to encourage and develope those discoveries and improve- 
ments, in which this age is so prolific. It would indeed be a 
pleasing duty and an appropriate task, on this occasion, to sketch 
ihe history of the Commerce of New York, but that. Sir, would 
require the pen of an historian, and its history is yet to be written. 
I beg leave to propose — 

" Commerce — Without its aid. History would be rather ' a sealed 
book' than ' a living letter.'" 

From the invitation given to the Maryland Historical So- 
ciety, the formation of which took place in the course of the 
preceding year, it was expected that a Delegation from this 
junior sister Association, would have been present at the 
Dinner. To the Foreign Corresponding Secretary (Frederic 
DE Peyster, Esq.,) was assigned the duty of welcoming the 
Delegation, and of introducing a sentiment in compliment 
to their patriotic State, by some remarks suggested by her 
Colonial annals, and characteristic of the liberal views and 
generous conduct of the earlier settlers on her soil ; showing 
that the principles which actuated the Pilgrims who sought 
there a home under the sway of their wise and enlightened 
Proprietary, gave an impulse to the Colony, and were illus- 
trated in the benignity of her laws and their impartial 
administration ; that these principles in the abstract were 
well understood by their brother Pilgrims who disembarked 
at Plymouth ; but, except in the case of Rhode Island — that 
small but gallant State — they were, in their practical opera- 
tion, sadly at variance with that genuine spirit of liberty, 
which made "free indeed" the men of Maryland, in the 
exercise of political rights and the enjoyment of religious 
toleration. In reference to these interesting events, so 
deserving of just and merited commendation, and to the 
obligations resting on the sons to maintain inviolate the fair 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 99 

fame of their fathers' land, Mr. De Peyster submitted the 
following toast : — 

" Maryland in 1632 and 1649 — Memorable years in her annals : 
the one, as the era of her chartered existence ; the other, as the 
epoch of Religious Toleration, throughout her borders, by legisla- 
tive enactment. 

" May the descendants of the enlightened men, who were fore- 
most to proclaim ' Equal Rights,' and firm in maintaining their 
just sway, never suffer a stain to rest on her glorious escutcheon !" 

The lateness of the hour to which the proceedings extend- 
ed, necessarily prevented the company from listening to a 
number of gentlemen who were expected to speak. The 
remarks which accompanied the following toast, by Mr. 
Charles F. Hoffman, have appeared in a city paper as 
forming part of the actual proceedings of the Dinner, and 
properly belong to this account. 

" New York — The Empire Colony of the old Thirteen Provinces. 
Her motto still " Excelsior." May her Eagle in his proudest 
flight, never forget the gallant trials which first nerved his pinion." 

Notwithstanding the lateness of the hour, Mr. President, I claim 
your indulgence for a few words, in explanation of the sentiment I 
have just offered. Commenting sportively to the friend by my side, 
upon the ingenuous avoidance to-night of any allusion to those who 
entertained the planters of Plymouth rock for twelve years, in Old 
Amsterdam, or the historical associations of those who have to-day 
entertained their descendants for as many hours in New Amster- 
dam, it was suggested by a fellow-member that the proceedings of 
this celebration would wear rather an awkward aspect when given 
to the world. Our anniversary festival would seem to be held 
rather in commemoration of Massachusetts than of New York. 
Another gentleman opposite to me has also suggested that inasmuch 
as this Society has been, from time to time, liberally aided by the 
State Legislature, it were positively disrespectful to the people who 
are represented in that Legislature, if no special reference to their 
past history should be made, upon an occasion like the present. 

The able discourses upon early New York, delivered before this 
Society more than a generation since, by Gouverneur Morris and 



100 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

De Witt Clinton, and some fifteen years later by Chancellor Kent 
and Gulian C. Verplanck — names not yet wholly forgotten by the 
present population of New York — induced a hope, in the early part 
of the evening, that by some allusion, either to these productions or 
to the past history which those productions illustrate ; or, finally, 
to the names of those eminent New Yorkers themselves, the office 
which I have thus hastily undertaken would be measurably ful- 
filled. 

The majority of the company, however, have, I presume, like 
myself, been so much interested in the eloquent commentaries upon 
the local annals of Massachusetts, and the ever-memorable excel- 
lence of Tier pilgrim fathers, that the hours have sped on in perfect 
forgetfulness of our forefathers. Sir, we have heard much to-night 
of "the pure Anglo-Saxon stock," and of the men who first settled 
on the Eastern outer-casing of this continent. We have heard 
little of those who struck inwardly to its heart, and grappled at 
once with its strong vital pulsations at the head of its tide-waters. 
We have heard nothing, sir, since we left yonder church, of those 
bold Belgic navigators, whose flag led that of Britain on every sea ; 
those devoted Huguenots who sprang with such vigor from beneath 
the shadow of despotism, that they made but one bound from luxu- 
rious France to this then savage wilderness ; those brave English 
cavaliers, who, recoiling from Puritan intolerance with the same 
spirit as did the Huguenots from Papal bigotry, came hither with 
little but cloak and rapier, to carve out their fortunes amid the 
forests of New York. A trinity of good blood, that in producing 
god-like men would mate with the Anglo-Saxon the world over. 
But here, sir, I wish I could recall now the eloquent language of 
Governeur Morris, when he speaks of the fusion of these three races 
upon a soil which had already nurtured the noblest and most power- 
ful race of Aborigines upon this continent — the Roman-like and 
far-conquering Iroquois ! That I could recall, too, his predictions 
of what those blended forces of best manhood must accomplish, in a 
region whose natural resources afford a field for all the most power- 
ful energies of civilization ! He looked upon the Susquehanna 
connecting us with the Chesapeake; upon the Genessee connecting 
us with the Gulf of St. Lawrence ; upon the Alleghany linking us 
with the sea of Mexico ; upon the great Lakes binding us to the 
boundless West ; upon the Hudson uniting us with the civilized 
world. He turned from the bloody school of our energies, in a 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. lOl 

hundred and fifty years of border wars, and imagined those same 
indomitable powers applied to the arts of peace ! 

Sir, the curious speculative theory of that philosophic statesman 
is now History. Yes, sir, it has been History for more than twenty 
years. Sir, the men of New York were acting History while 
those in other States were writinof it for us and our children. Am 

o 

I extravagant? It must be so, sir, or how else could our own bril- 
liant early annals become overlaid, as they are, by the purely 
local, and to us comparatively foreign themes of the Plymouth Rock 
and the Pilgrim Fathers ! [A voice.] " We must look nearer 
home," some gentleman observes ; our gazetteers and school his- 
tories are certainly nearly all prepared by New Englanders igno- 
rant of our annals, and unsympathizing in our story. Why, I saw 
a new octavo Gazetteer this very day, in which several pages are 
gravely quoted from Knickerbocker's New York, as veritable 
history. But I will " look nearer home," as the gentleman 
invites me^ Sir, the successful mingling of those wondrous 
waters has raised such a wave as .almost to wash from the memory 
of the present generation the deeds of colonial enterprise upon 
which Mr. Morris predicted his generous prophecy. We hear much 
of the " Empire State," we forget the " Empire Colony" — ^the pro- 
vince where the two most powerful nations of Europe so long con- 
tended for empire. We forget that with a population less than that 
of either Massachusetts or Virginia, here was the great seat of 
English executive and colonial power, in lime of peace: and here, 
as Chancellor Kent has so happily termed it, " the Flanders of 
North America," in lime of war. Mr, President, the old military 
glory of New York should not be thus forgotten ! Surely, the mar- 
tial spirit of our fathei's has cost enough in years gone by ! That 
martial spirit which, leaving so few non-combatants, made the 
Revolution within our borders truly a civil war: that spirit of action 
which compelled every New Yorker to take up arms for king and 
colony ; which furnished regiment after regiment to the Crown, and 
treble the number to the Confederacy ; which blazed forth with all 
its desperate energies, in the death-grapple of brothers at Oriskany, 
and which is traceable in the gallantry of New York's exiled sons 
down to the field of Waterloo ! Surely that military spirit of the 
storied past should not be forgotten, while we enjoy its best fruits in 
the prosperous present. 

" The battle-field of America !" Why, sir, the border conflicts 
9* 



102 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

with naked savages of all the States put together, would not fill up 
the military page of our history, even previous to — [A voice, " the 
Revolution."] — not the Revolution — no, sir, nor what is called " the 
old French War," — ^but previous to the year of grace, 1700 ! 

Is it too late ? or will gentlemen yet bear with me for a few mo- 
ments, in a rapid enumeration of a few solid facts ? I will go on. 
We have heard much to-night of what our Eastern neighbors have 
endured for the promotion of doctrine — it may be healthful to hear 
what our fathers did for the protection of home. 

You have heard from our Orator, before we came to the table, 
that the Dutch Hollanders penetrated to Albany, in 1609, the same 
year that the French, under La Roche, reached Lake George. 
You are aware, too, that both France and Holland laid a claim to 
the intermediate country predicated upon these several discoveries. 
It may be necessary to remind you, though, that to enforce their 
claim the French soon commenced supplying the Hurons, and other 
Canadian Indians, with fire-arms — while the Dutch were equally 
on the alert to furnish the Iroquois* with European weapons to repel 
them. For nearly thirty years the French were more or less suc- 
cessful, in making inroads upon this Province ; but in 1650 the 
Iroquois beat them back to Montreal, stormed the garrison of Trois 
Rivieres, and carried off the commandant prisoner. Those victors 
were " Natives" of New York. Yes ! in thirty years her strong 
soil had already produced a crop of men from the aboriginal stock, 
capable of contending with veterans who had fought under the 
greatest captains of modern Europe. But I must not delay with 
comments upon the hurried enumeration which may yet try your 
patience. In 1666, De Tracy, De Chaumont, and De Courcelles, 
with twelve hundred French soldiers, two pieces of cannon, and a 
thousand Indians and camp followers, descended upon the Mohawk 
and carried off many Iroquois prisoners, which were afterwards 
sent to the galleys in France. The northern and western barrier 
of the Province seemed giving way, and its ultimate subjection to 
the arms of France seemed inevitable, when in 1685 M. de la Barre 
descended with a force of seventeen hundred men upon Sackett's 
Harbor — yet three years afterwards, in 1688, we again find twelve 
hundred New York Indians under the walls of Montreal. " I give 



* Called also " Mingoes" and " Five Nations." 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 103 

you four days to decide," said their leader to the French command- 
ant, " I give you four days to decide, whether you accept the terms of 
peace offered you by New York, or be driven into the sea. They 
did accept them ! 

In 1690 we find the French again within fifteen miles of Albany ; 
they succeeded in burning Schenectady — but a few months after- 
wards those red New Yorkers are again upon the island of JVlontreal, 
and though repulsed, they left their traces in blood and ashes, cut 
off one of the outposts, killed the commandant, and carried off 
several officers. 

In 1691 the adventurous Frenchmen again penetrated to the Mo- 
hawk, and again in the same year the Iroquois have driven them 
from our borders, on Champlain and Ontario. 

" The only way to conquer the Iroquois," said M. D» Nonville 
to Louis XIV., " is by the previous conquest of New York." 

" The only way to save New York," said Leisler, the people's 
Governor, "is by the previous conquest of CanaJa." 

In 1692, a fleet was commissioned by the Court of France to re- 
duce the City of New York, and get the mastery of the Hudson ; 
and an army transported from France to strike at Albany, by the 
way of Canada ; but while these forces are crossing the Atlantic, 
the New York Indians have again driven the French within the 
defences of Montreal. 

In 1693 the French are repulsed from Schenectady by Peter 
Schuyler, at the head of two hundred and ninety white, and two 
hundred and fifty red. New Yorkers. 

In 1695 we find a command of three hundred French soldiers 
obtaining an advantage over the New York confederates at Oswego, 
while five hundred, who made their descent by the way of Lake 
Champlain, are beaten back with loss. 

In 1696, one of the best appointed armies that ever displayed 
upon this continent, landed at Oswego, under the command of the 
veteran general Count de Frontenac. Cannon, mortars, grenades, 
four heavy battalions of musqueteers, with a commissariat amply 
piovided, — an army led on by an array of Counts, Barons, Cheva- 
liers, and private gentlemen volunteers, each with his following of 
servants and camp equipage, penetrated in their batteaux, from 
Oswego into Lake Onondaga, on whose banks they built a fort, and 
then proceeded to ravage the country. So active was the Baron 
de Beckancourt, the Chevalier de Grais, de Mesnil, and other 



104 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OP THE 

French nobles, all bent upon distinguishing themselves in this wild 
and, as they thought, romantic warfare, that all that portion of 
New York cultivated by our demi civilized tribes, was reduced to 
desolation by their ravages. A fearful famine succeeded : yet 
again and again is the red arm of the Iroquois felt in Canada, till 
the peace of Ryswick brought a breathing spell to both colonies. 

In 1710 the Province of New York is again converted into an 
armed camp. The troops of Connecticut and New Jersey being 
mustered at Wood Creek with her own, to prevent the French from 
breaking through to the Atlantic, by way of the Hudson. 

In 1711, four thousand Provincials, with six hundred Iroquois, 
mustered at Albany, while the old border struggles are renewed till 
the peace of Utrecht, in 1713. 

In 1727 the Province is again in arms, under Governor Burnet, 
marching upon the French, at Niagara. 

In 1746 Saratoga is surprised by the French and Hurons, and 
thirty families are cut off in a night, — while in the same year the 
New York confederates carry off a whole garrison, from within 
ten leagues of Montreal ; and thus the frontier war continued to 
rage till the treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle brought a temporary peace to 
the Province. 

17.55 brings us to the battle of Lake George, where Sir William 
Johnson won his spurs, and where eight hundred of the invaders, 
under Dieskau, were left dead upon the field. 

The assault of the Marquis of Montcalm, on Fort Ontario, with 
four thousand troops, follows ; and the massacre of Fort William 
Henry, at Lake George, with the devastation of German Flats, on 
the Mohawk, by the invaders, brings us to (1758) the duplicate 
battle of Lake George, when seventeen thousand men under Aber- 
crombie, were defeated by the French ; the reduction of Fort 
Frontinac, on Lake Ontario, by three thousand provincials ; the 
fight with the galleys, on Lake Champlain, and the different affairs 
of Crown Point and Ticonderoga. 

In 1776, the empire Colony, where European competitors have 
so long contended for the majesty of this northern continent, be- 
came herself — the aspirant for Empire. Need I enumerate our 
storied fields of the Revolution ? To set them justly before you — 
to trace the spirit that animated many of them, I should begin 
with the popular movements for liberty in New York, long years 
preceding the Declaration of Independence ! But I must not dilate 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 105 

upon the incidental branches of my theme. It is the military 
story, too, — not the political, annals of New York, that I am at. 
tempting thus hastily to illustrate. Within the seven years of the 
Revolution, the Battle of Long Island, the Battle of "White Plains, 
the Storming of Stoney Point, the affair of Fort Montgomery, the 
Burning of Kingston, the sanguinary struggles of Cherry Valley 
and the Mohawk, with Oriskany, the bloodiest field of all our Re- 
volutionary conflicts, and Saratoga, the most glorious, crowd in 
with Niagara, Saratoga, and Crown Point, to mark their names yet 
again upon the blazing tablet of our military annals. 

1814 — And yet again, the events at Erie and Sackett's Harbor, 
at Champlain and Niagara, come in to swell the record of deeds 
of arms, and approve New York the Battle field of the Union, the 
Flanders of American history. 

Sir, I am grateful for the patience with which, at this late hour, 
I have been listened to by the company, but I make no apology for 
thus detaining them. It is good to remember — it is good for people 
as well as for individuals, to remember who they are, what they 
are, and how they came thus. There is no one to speak for us ; 
it is time we should speak for ourselves. Our neighbors have 
been writing history while we have been acting it. I respect, 1 
reverence, sir, the zeal with which they preserve their own annals, 
but it is full time we should see that they so write them as not to 
overlay and obliterate ours. Their generalizations about " the 
pure Anglo-Saxon race" have already become naturalized here ; 
the specific phrase of " our Pilgrim Fathers" is rapidly following ; 
sir, the history of this State is no history of " the Puritan Anglo- 
Saxon," and save as the descendants of those earnest-souled, 
vigorous-minded men who fought side by side with us, in the 
Revolution, our provincial annals are no more to be merged in 
those of Massachusetts than they are in those of Virginia. The 
bird that bears " Excelsior" in his beak was fledged on his own soil. 
He never began his soarings from Plymouth Rock. He dressed 
his plumage in our own lakes, and his pinions were nerved in the 
air of our own mountains. 

George Gibbs, Esq. then proposed the parting toast : 
" Our Guests and our next happy meeting." 

This was received with great cordiality, and at half-past 
1 o'clock the company separated. 



106 FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE 

The Committee of Arrangements regret their inability to 
present a more full Report of the Speeches delivered on the 
occasion. They have been obliged to rely principally upon 
notes taken at the time, which are frequently and necessari- 
ly imperfect. Of the interesting and instructive remarks 
made by Dr. Bethune, no report was preserved, and the 
reverend speaker has not been able to comply with the re- 
quest of the Committee to supply the deficiency. 



Note. — The Rev. Dr. Young of Boston, one of the Delegation from Massa- 
chusetts, thus happily introduced at the Festival of the Old Colony Club of 
Massachusetts, held at Boston on the 21st December, 1844, the remarks which 
he intended to have made on tliis occasion : 

I was sorry, sir, to find at the late glorious celebration of the New York His- 
torical Society, that the distinction between the colonies of Plymouth and Mas- 
sachusetts was quite overlooked ; and the more so as it deprived me of the 
opportunity of making some remarks in reference to the early ties which bound 
together the colonies of Plymouth and New Netherlands. I intended to tell our 
New York friends at that time that the descendants of the Pilgrims had not for- 
gotten, and never could forget the hospitable reception and friendly entertainment 
which our forefathers received during their twelve years pilgrimage in the land of 
their Dutch ancestors. The name of Holland is dear to our hearts as well as to 
theirs. She gave our exiled fathers an asylum, and a church to worship in ; and 
in her precious soil repose the ashes of the sainted Robinson, and of many of his 
humble and pious flock. The graves of the early Pilgrims are to be sought, not 
on the burial hill of Plymouth, but in Amsterdam and Leyden. We have a 
" God's Acre" there, planted with the seeds of resurrection. 

Nor have we forgotten that when the Pilgrims first meditated removing from 
Holland to this outside of the world, the Dutch made them large offers to go under 
their protection to Hudson's river, and would have transported them free of ex- 
pense, and supplied every family with cattle, and provisions and clothing. We 
remember, too, that when the Pilgrims sailed from Delft Haven, there were several 
of the Dutch people, who understood English and had attended Robinson's 
church, that embarked with them on the perilous voyage. 

And in regard to that voyage, sir, I have long since exposed, and would here 
again, in the name of the Old Colony, utterly repudiate, as a calumny, the charge, 
which has been repeated and believed for a hundred and seventy years and more, 
that the Dutch bribed the master of the Mayflower to carry his passengers farther 
to the north than they meant to go, and land them on some other point of this 
uninhabited coast. I admit, there can be no doubt that the Pilgrims originally 
intended to settle somewhere in the neighborhood of Hudson's river, it may be 
on the very island on which the magnificent city of New York is built. But it 
was not to the treachery of the captain of the Mayflower, — it was the elements — 



NEW YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 107 

nay, it was the providence of God, that led them within the shoals of Cape Cod, 
and caused them to settle down on the rugged and barren shores of New England. 
And it was a very fortunate thing for the Knickerbockers that our fathers did so. 
For those Pilgrim Fathers, it is well known, were indomitable squatters. Where 
they once planted themselves, they were sure to remain. And had they once got 
a footing on the island of Manhattan, the inevitable consequence would have 
been, that instead of glorying, as many of the New Yorkers now justly do, in the 
Dutch blood that flows in their veins, every mother's son of them would have 
been a genuine, unsophisticated Yankee. 

Mr. President, it is grateful to recollect that the good understanding which 
subsisted for twelve years between the Leyden Pilgrims and the Dutch in Holland, 
was revived and continued after they had each planted a colony on these shores. 
We know that there was the most friendly intercourse between the colonists, and 
we fortunately have a part of the correspondence which passed between them, 
and also an account of the friendly visits which they mutually made to each other, 
all which manifests the amicable disposilion that prevailed on both sides. 

Allow me, in conclusion, Mr. President, in reference to these historical facts, 
to propose the following sentiment: — 

" Holland — The refuge of civil and religious liberty in the sixteenth and seven- 
teenth centuries — the nursery of the brave men who planted the first colonies in 
New York and New England. May the good understanding and kind feelings 
which subsisted between the fathers be maintained and perpetuated by their 
children." 



The followinglist comprises the names of the delegates from the several Socie- 
ties represented on this occasion, viz : 

MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 
Hon. John Quincy Adams, Rev. John Codman, D. D. 

" Leverett Saltonstall, " George E. Ellis, 

Rev. Alexander Young. 

'AMERICAN ANTIQUARIAN SOCIETY. 
Sam'l M. Burnside, Esq., Stephen Salisbury, Esq., 

Hon. Rejoice Newton, Hon. Benj. F. Thomas, 

Samuel F. Haven, Esq. 

^CONNECTICUT HISTORICAL SOCIETY. 
Hon. Thomas Day, Isaac W. Stuart, Esq., 

Rev. Dr. Robbin?, Philip Ripley, Esq., 

Henry Barnard, Esq., Erastus Smith, Esq., 

Rev. C. W. Bradley, Charles H. Olmsted, E.-*q. 



